Morocco's ONEE launches tender for 362 MW El Menzel pumped‑storage plant

The Office National de l’Électricité et de l’Eau Potable (ONEE) of Morocco has issued an international call for tenders to design, supply, construct, install and commission a 362 MW pumped‑storage power station (STEP) at El Menzel, about 35 km southeast of Séfrou in the Fès‑Meknès region. The turnkey EPC contract will cover feasibility studies, equipment procurement and the 48‑month construction schedule, with bids due by 30 September 2026.

The project, financed by the Islamic Development Bank, aims to boost the flexibility and stability of Morocco’s power grid as renewable generation expands. El Menzel will join existing pumped‑storage facilities at Afourer (464 MW) and Abdelmoumen (350 MW), and complement the under‑construction Ifahsa plant (300 MW), forming a national portfolio of hydro‑electric storage to balance supply and demand.

By increasing stored capacity, the initiative supports the country’s energy transition strategy under King Mohammed VI’s Vision, enhancing supply security and energy sovereignty.