OCP Group, a leader in plant nutrition and phosphate-based fertilisers, and Fortescue Energy, part of global green energy, metals and technology company Fortescue, announced a landmark Joint Venture in Morocco.
The equal partnership aims to supply green hydrogen, ammonia, and fertilisers to Morocco, Europe, and international markets.
It includes the potential development of manufacturing facilities and a research and development hub to advance the growing renewable energy industry in Morocco.
Dr Andrew Forrest AO, Fortescue executive chair and founder said, “Together, Fortescue and OCP will build a world-leading and globally competitive platform to accompany Morocco’s journey into a green energy production, manufacturing, and industrial powerhouse.
Fortescue and OCP Group, are united on a goal to reach emission reduction targets, they share a common vision for the role of green hydrogen and ammonia in forging a sustainable future globally.
Mostafa Terrab, chairman and chief executive officer of OCP Group said, “Our strategic partnership with Fortescue is a testimony to our joint commitment to decarbonisation, driving the development of cutting-edge facilities and delivering competitive renewable energy, products and technology.
The partners have laid out proposed plans for four cornerstone projects in Morocco:
- Large-scale integrated green ammonia and green fertiliser production capacity, including renewables, energy generation, electrolysis, ammonification and fertiliser production
- Manufacturing of green technology and equipment;
- An R&D and Technology Hub, located alongside Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) near Marrakech, to bolster the JV, the ecosystem and other players, with research in renewable energy, green hydrogen and minerals processing; and
- Collaboration of corporate venture capital funds to drive investment in key technology advancements.
The partnership objective is to supply green hydrogen and ammonia for use as sources of green energy and in the manufacture of carbon-neutral and customised fertilisers that are accessible and affordable for farmers around the world.
“Morocco will be a major player in the global energy transition given it is home to some of the world’s most prospective wind and solar resources, two large coastlines, and is in close proximity to Europe and the Americas,” said Forrest.
Fortescue Energy chief executive officer, Mark Hutchinson added, This is a very significant moment for Fortescue, OCP Group and Morocco as we help revolutionise the way we power our planet and diversify the world’s future energy security, while creating thousands of jobs and industries in Morocco.”
These proposed projects will also leverage the expertise of INNOVX, a multi-sectoral venture platform that is dedicated to building innovative and sustainable businesses, and contributing to creating emerging ecosystems with a strong local impact.
The venture is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.