Powering Africa’s Energy Future: New Gigafactory Set to Transform Mobility Landscape
The African Development Bank (AfDB) has approved a €100 million loan for Gotion Power Morocco, paving the way for the continent’s first electric vehicle battery gigafactory. Located in the Rabat-Salé-Kénitra Free Trade Zone, this strategic project represents a significant step towards Africa’s clean energy transition and industrialization goals.
The facility will produce lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, essential components for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. In Phase 1, it’s expected to generate 10 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of battery cells and packs, with plans to expand capacity to 100 GWh in the future.
Key Benefits & Impact:
- Clean Energy Integration: The gigafactory will enable greater integration of solar and wind power into African grids, supporting reliable low-carbon energy access.
- Job Creation: Over 600 direct jobs are projected to be created in Phase 1, with opportunities for skills development and local industrial growth.
- Supply Chain Resilience: The project will strengthen Africa’s position in global clean energy value chains, reducing reliance on external suppliers.
- Economic Diversification: Morocco aims to become a leading hub for electric mobility and green technology manufacturing.
Speaking about the investment, Kevin Kariuki, AfDB Vice President for Power, Energy, Climate & Green Growth, emphasized that battery storage is “the missing link” in Africa’s clean energy transition. The facility aligns with the bank’s strategic vision of promoting resilient infrastructure, industrialization, and sustainable development across the continent.
The gigafactory will be powered primarily by renewable energy sources, further reducing its environmental footprint and demonstrating Morocco’s commitment to green technologies.