UK Withdraws Support for $34 Billion Morocco-UK Subsea Power Project

The UK government has officially withdrawn its support for the $33-$34 billion Morocco-UK Power Project, which aimed to transmit solar and wind energy from Morocco to the UK via a 3,800 to 4,000 km subsea cable. Energy Minister Michael Shanks stated that the project no longer aligns with the UK’s strategic goal of prioritizing domestic renewable energy production, citing concerns about delivery risks, security, geopolitical dependencies, and economic value. The project, led by British firm Xlinks and backed by investors including TAQA, Total Energies, and Octopus Energy, was expected to supply about 8% of the UK's electricity, enough for over seven million homes. Xlinks Chair Sir Dave Lewis expressed surprise and disappointment, emphasizing significant prior investments and the project's potential to offer cheaper electricity than nuclear alternatives. Despite the government's decision, Xlinks plans to explore alternative financing and ways to realize the project's potential. This move reflects a broader shift in UK energy policy towards focusing on homegrown renewable projects amid record global investment in clean energy.