As Europe races toward its net-zero targets, a significant portion of its renewable energy strategy now involves importing solar and wind power from North African nations like Morocco, Egypt, and Tunisia. Backed by massive infrastructure investments and international cooperation, this growing trend promises decarbonization at scale. But increasingly, critics are raising concerns: Is this clean energy pipeline truly sustainable—or is it a case of greenwashing at Africa’s expense?
Recent reports from environmental watchdogs and community organizations warn that these cross-border energy projects may be accelerating land dispossession, water stress, and inequality in local regions while exporting the benefits abroad.
As we enter 2025, the world is being forced to reexamine not only how energy is produced—but also who it serves.
The Rise of European Energy Imports from North Africa
The EU’s shift away from Russian gas has supercharged its renewable procurement ambitions. The REPowerEU plan explicitly calls for the development of long-distance electricity transmission lines and hydrogen import corridors—including from North Africa.
Some key initiatives underway:
- Xlinks Morocco–UK Power Project: A $22 billion subsea cable to supply 3.6 GW of solar and wind energy to the UK—equivalent to 8% of its electricity demand.
- Green Hydrogen Pipelines from Egypt and Morocco to Europe, funded by German and EU infrastructure grants.
- Tunisia–Italy Power Link (ELMED): A 600 MW cable project to connect Tunisian solar capacity with the Italian grid.
While technically promising, these projects raise ethical and environmental concerns, especially when local energy needs remain unmet.
What Critics Are Calling ‘Green Colonialism’
The Guardian recently highlighted several North African projects where vast tracts of land are being leased or sold to European-backed developers. In Morocco’s desert regions and Egypt’s renewable zones, local communities report limited consultation, displacement, and minimal benefit-sharing.
Common concerns include:
- Lack of electrification in nearby towns despite hosting large-scale solar arrays.
- Water scarcity, worsened by green hydrogen production processes.
- Job opportunities going primarily to foreign contractors.
- Export-first priorities, leaving national energy access targets unfulfilled.
This has led to the charge of “green colonialism“—where Europe is accused of offsetting its emissions at the cost of local equity and sustainability in the Global South.
Balancing Export Ambitions with Local Development
It’s essential to acknowledge that these projects can deliver substantial benefits—if structured inclusively.
Governments in Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt have voiced commitment to using renewable exports to:
- Fund local infrastructure
- Modernize national grids
- Reduce fossil fuel reliance
- Drive regional industrial growth (e.g., green ammonia, hydrogen refining)
The question is whether private developers and foreign investors are upholding this vision—or pursuing short-term returns at the expense of long-term resilience.
How CLG Energy Transition Centre Approaches Cross-Border Development
At CLG Energy Transition Centre, we work with both global investors and local governments to ensure clean energy projects are not only technically viable but also socially and environmentally responsible.
Our cross-border energy advisory model includes:
- Local benefit assessments and community engagement planning
- ESG compliance frameworks aligned with EU and African Union standards
- Legal support for equitable land agreements and resource use
- Policy consulting to align export projects with national electrification goals
In short, we ensure that clean power flows in both directions—to the grid and to the people.
A Way Forward: Principles for Responsible Renewable Imports
As global partnerships expand, we believe there are five key principles that should guide renewable energy trade between Europe and North Africa:
- Dual-use Projects: Ensure new infrastructure powers local communities and industries before export.
- Transparent Agreements: Publish contracts and environmental assessments for public review.
- Community Participation: Engage local populations from planning to operation.
- Fair Compensation and Jobs: Guarantee landholders and residents benefit economically.
- Sustainability Monitoring: Track water use, emissions savings, and biodiversity impact through third-party audits.
The promise of Europe–Africa clean energy cooperation is real—and potentially revolutionary. It can deliver decarbonization, industrial growth, and economic transformation on both sides of the Mediterranean.
But without robust frameworks and inclusive governance, these projects risk becoming another chapter in the long history of resource extraction without local prosperity.
At CLG Energy Transition Centre, we are committed to building energy partnerships that are not only renewable—but responsible. Because climate action cannot come at the cost of social justice.
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Shaping Africa’s Future at the Energy Transition Centre
As we embark on a critical journey towards a sustainable energy future, your involvement is crucial. The Energy Transition Centre at CLG is at the forefront of transforming Africa’s energy landscape, advocating for an energy mix, including renewable energy adoption to foster economic growth and improve quality of life. We invite you to join us in this essential mission. Whether you’re an industry expert, a policy maker, or a concerned citizen, your contribution can make a significant difference. For guidance, insights, or to share your ideas, feel free to contact the Energy Transition Centre today with questions:
- Oneyka Ojogbo, Head of Energy Transition Centre: [email protected]
- Leon van Der Merwe, Head of Energy Transition Centre: [email protected]
- Brenda Wagura: [email protected]
Together, we can shape a brighter, more sustainable future.
