Europe Accused of Greenwashing with North Africa’s Renewable Energy, Greenpeace Report Claims
Greenpeace: European-Backed Projects Undermine North Africa’s Energy Independence
European countries are exploiting renewable energy resources from Morocco and Egypt to enhance their own environmental credentials while leaving North African nations dependent on polluting imported fuels, according to a new Greenpeace report.
Morocco and Egypt, both strategically positioned south of the Mediterranean, are leveraging their abundant solar and wind resources to establish themselves as key players in Europe’s efforts to diversify its energy supply. However, Greenpeace argues that European-backed renewable and lower-carbon energy projects intended for export are hindering these countries’ ability to decarbonize their own economies. The report highlights issues such as local population displacement and excessive consumption of freshwater—often in regions already suffering from water scarcity.
Despite exporting clean energy, both Egypt and Morocco remain net importers of fossil fuels, relying heavily on imported oil and gas to meet their domestic energy needs. This paradox highlights a concerning trend: while Europe benefits from their renewable resources, North African nations continue to bear the environmental and economic costs of fossil fuel dependency.
Following the outbreak of the Ukraine-Russia war, European energy companies poured billions into Egypt’s energy sector to secure alternative gas supplies. Europe had lost access to 80 billion cubic meters (2.8 trillion cubic feet) of Russian gas, prompting a surge in investment in Egyptian gas reserves. However, Greenpeace warns that aggressive extraction has led to environmental degradation, including soil erosion and water contamination. The report contends that these investments have done little to benefit the Egyptian people.
Furthermore, Greenpeace claims that Egypt is increasingly turning to the use of highly polluting fuels such as mazut—a blend of heavy hydrocarbons containing toxic substances like sulfides and heavy metals—to free up more natural gas for export to Europe. This shift raises concerns about the country’s environmental and public health policies.
Despite these challenges, some experts argue that Egypt could still emerge as a leader in renewable energy. According to the Atlantic Council, international investment is crucial for Egypt to build the necessary infrastructure to scale up its renewable energy sector. The think tank asserts that with strategic policies and strong international partnerships, Egypt has the potential to become a global clean energy hub.
Meanwhile, in Morocco, major energy investments are also geared toward European markets. French energy giant TotalEnergies has committed $10.6 billion (£8.4 billion) to a green hydrogen and ammonia plant in Guelmim-Oued Noun, set to begin production in 2027. Germany has also pledged up to €300 million (£250 million) to develop green hydrogen facilities, primarily for export.
As Europe continues to secure North Africa’s renewable energy for its own benefit, the Greenpeace report raises pressing questions about energy justice, environmental sustainability, and whether these projects genuinely contribute to a greener future for all—or simply shift the burden onto less powerful nations.
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