Germany Invests $8.5 Million in Renewable Energy for Moroccan Mosques
The German government has invested $8.5 million (€8.09 million) in a project aimed at enhancing energy efficiency and renewable energy in mosques across Morocco, Middle East Monitor reported yesterday.
Titled “Promoting Employment through Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy in Mosques,” the initiative was implemented by the Society for International Cooperation (GIZ) from 2015 to 2021, with funding from Germany’s Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).
Of the total budget, $6.3 million (€5.99 million) was allocated for expert deployment in advisory and implementation measures. Additionally, $424,000 (€404,000) was spent on materials such as LED lights, solar water heaters, and photovoltaic panels, while administrative expenses accounted for $1.11 million (€1.06 million).
The project focused on training local companies, skilled workers, and mosque teachers, including imams, on the benefits of energy efficiency. Notably, gender equality was emphasized, with six of the nine employees being women by August 2019. The BMZ reported that the project successfully promoted business and employment opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
Morocco has around 52,000 mosques, with the Ministry of Habous and Islamic Affairs covering costs for approximately 15,000. The ministry aims to generate 52% of the country’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030.
