Description
Project Name: Oualidia
Project Owner: Innovent
Standard: Verra VCS
Project ID: 1989
Located in the plains of Sidi Bennour province, the Oualidia Wind Farm have become a global showcase for renewable innovation. Fully operational since mid-2021, this 35.6 MW powerhouse is redefining clean energy with a bold vision of circular economy and cutting-edge technology. Spearheaded by InnoVent Maroc (subsidiary InnoVent), Oualidia is not just generating electricity—it’s generating a brighter, greener future for Morocco and for the region as a whole.
At the heart of Oualidia’s brilliance lies a great achievement: the pioneering use of 10 refurbished Finnish turbines, each meticulously restored after eight years of service in Finland. This landmark initiative (first of its kind in North Africa) reuses over 4,000 tonnes of high-value materials, slashing waste and proving that sustainability can be profitable. Producing 80 GWh annually, Oualidia powers the equivalent of 24,000 Moroccan households, a step toward Morocco’s ambitious goal of 52% renewable energy by 2030.
Oualidia’s crown jewel is Africa’s tallest wind turbine, soaring 202 meters to the blade tip, thanks to the revolutionary Nabralift system developed by Spanish innovator Nabrawind. This self-erecting tripod structure lifts turbines to unprecedented heights capturing stronger winds to boost energy output by up to 40%. Requiring just 80 m³ of concrete and 10 tonnes of steel (versus 500 m³ and 60 tonnes for conventional turbines), Nabralift slashes construction costs and environmental impact, setting a new global standard for efficiency.
InnoVent’s 20-year of experience shines through in Oualidia’s success. With over 450 MW of wind and solar projects across Africa and Europe, this industry titan has mastered the art of turning ambition into impact. At Oualidia, their commitment goes beyond power: the project created 300 jobs during construction, sustains 20 permanent roles for local technicians, and supports community initiatives like solar panel donations and reforestation efforts. By injecting clean energy into the grid of the Office National de l’Eau et de l’Électricité (ONEE) under a power purchase agreement, Oualidia is fueling Morocco’s industrial growth and energy independence.
Impact
Oualidia is home to the tallest wind turbine in Africa.
The project is a business case of African excellence and innovation. It paves the way on other groundbreaking initiatives in the field of clean energy across the continent.
The plant was build through advanced technology transfer from industrialized countries.
The project was the first to introduce refurbished wind turbines in the country after they were fully renovated.
Innovent used the local workforce to build the plant.
The project hired 150 people for the construction phase and relies on local technicians to ensure operation and maintenance.
Morocco targeted 4,000 MW of solar and wind capacity by 2020.
The project is helping the country to reach its target by producing green electricity.
CSR Action
Innovent is committed to work with governments by offering and installing solar panels for the local communities to help them meet their energy needs. Innovent has made more than €1500,000 in donations.
Innovent also supports the music project Muzukidz in communities in southern Africa, giving violin courses to kids promoting well-being and integration in the society.
Innovent funds the reforestation of lands. The reforested area allows some animal species to find refuge and to flourish again.
