Morocco’s energy ministry announced Monday it has suspended the bidding process for a major liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal and associated pipeline infrastructure, a move that could signal a shift in the kingdom’s ambitious energy roadmap.

The Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development issued a statement confirming it is postponing the receipt and opening of bids for the projects, which were originally launched just last month. 

"Due to new parameters and assumptions related to this project... the ministry is postponing the receipt of applications and the opening of bids received as of today," the ministry stated.

The tender included plans to construct a strategic LNG terminal at the Nador West Med port on the Mediterranean coast. 

Additionally, the project outlined the construction of a pipeline to link the new terminal to the existing Maghreb-Europe Gas Pipeline. This connection currently allows Morocco to import gas via Spanish terminals to supply two domestic power plants.

Beyond power generation, the project also sought to extend the pipeline network to vital industrial hubs on the Atlantic coast, specifically targeting the zones of Mohammedia and Kenitra.

The suspension comes at a critical juncture for Morocco’s energy strategy. The North African nation is racing to diversify its energy mix away from coal-fired power. 

Current ministry estimates project that Morocco’s natural gas demand will surge to 8 billion cubic meters (bcm) by 2027, a significant jump from its current consumption of approximately 1 bcm.

The gas expansion is intended to align with the country’s aggressive renewable energy goals. Morocco aims to increase the share of renewables in its total installed power capacity to 52% by 2030, up from the current 45%.

While the ministry’s "new parameters" remain undefined, the delay leaves international bidders and energy analysts waiting to see if the kingdom plans to scale the project or adjust its technical requirements to meet changing market conditions.

Officials did not provide a specific timeline for when the process might resume.