Morocco is one of Africa’s leaders in renewable energy, with large-scale solar projects in Ouarzazate, Midelt, Tafilalt, and southern provinces like Dakhla and Laâyoune. To support these projects, the demand for solar mounting structures — the steel and aluminum frames that hold solar panels is growing rapidly.

Opening a solar mounting structures fabrication company in Morocco can be highly profitable, but it requires careful planning, legal setup, and compliance with Moroccan investment and industrial laws.

This guide explains step by step how foreign and local investors can launch such a business, from company formation to industrial operations.

Why Morocco Is Ideal for Solar Mounting Fabrication

Abundant solar resources: Over 3,200 kWh/m²/year in irradiation.
Government support: Morocco’s National Energy Strategy targets 52% renewable capacity by 2030.
Strategic location: Export hub to Europe, West Africa, and the Middle East.
Industrial zones: Free zones in Tangier, Kenitra, and Nador Al Aroui offer tax incentives.
Local demand: Large projects by MASEN and private IPPs (Independent Power Producers).

Step 1: Market Research & Feasibility

Before you start, conduct a feasibility study that covers:

Local demand: Partner with EPC contractors building solar farms.
Export potential: Europe is scaling up solar projects and prefers nearby suppliers.
Competitors: Few local manufacturers specialize in solar mounting structures, creating opportunity.
Supply chain: Morocco has strong steel and aluminum industries (notably in Tangier and Casablanca).

Step 2: Choose Your Business Structure

In Morocco, the most common legal forms for industrial businesses are:

SARL (Société à Responsabilité Limitée) – Limited liability company. Minimum 1 shareholder, flexible, widely used.
SA (Société Anonyme) – Public limited company. Better for large-scale investment with multiple shareholders.
Branch Office – For foreign companies wanting direct control without a separate entity.

Tip: For fabrication plants, investors usually prefer SARL or SA.

Step 3: Legal Setup

Reserve a company name with OMPIC.
Prepare statutes (bylaws) and notarize them.
Deposit capital in a Moroccan bank account.
Register at OMPIC and obtain RC (Registre de Commerce).
Obtain ICE (Identifiant Commun de l’Entreprise) and tax ID (IF).
Register with CNSS for employees.

Note: Foreign shareholders must transfer capital from abroad, with clear mention it is for capital social.

Step 4: Location & Industrial Zone Setup

Free zones (Tangier Med, Kenitra Atlantic, Nador) → tax exemptions, customs advantages.
Industrial parks near Casablanca or Mohammedia → access to steel/aluminum suppliers.
Southern provinces (Dakhla, Laâyoune) → close to solar megaprojects, with state incentives.

Step 5: Equipment & Production Line

You will need:

CNC machines for steel cutting.
Welding equipment.
Galvanization facilities for corrosion protection.
Assembly and quality control lines.

Local advantage: Morocco imports most solar mounting structures — local fabrication reduces costs for EPC contractors.

Step 6: Licensing & Compliance

Industrial license from the Ministry of Industry.
Environmental compliance (Law 12-03) → environmental impact assessments if plant is large.
Customs registration with PortNet for import/export.
Investment incentives application under the new Investment Charter (Law 18-95).

Step 7: Tax & Incentives

Corporate tax (IS): Reduced rates in free zones.
VAT: Standard 20%, exemptions may apply for renewable energy projects.
Customs duty relief: Machinery imports often exempted for renewable projects.
Subsidies: MASEN and regional CRIs (Investment Centers) support renewable energy manufacturing.

Step 8: Human Resources & Labor Law

Hire local engineers, welders, and technicians.
Register all employees with CNSS (social security).
Respect Moroccan Labor Code: working hours, contracts, minimum wage (SMIG).
Offer training in solar-specific fabrication to stay competitive.

Step 9: Partnerships & Clients

Your main clients will be:

EPC contractors (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) in solar farms.
Developers working with MASEN.
Private solar installers for commercial and industrial rooftops.
Export clients in Europe and Africa.

Checklist to Open a Solar Mounting Structures Fabrication Company in Morocco

Conduct feasibility study & market research
Choose legal form (SARL or SA)
Register with OMPIC, tax, and CNSS
Secure industrial land (free zone or industrial park)
Import machinery and set up production line
Obtain industrial & environmental licenses
Apply for investment incentives
Hire and train workforce
Build partnerships with EPC contractors and MASEN projects

Common Challenges & Red Flags

Delays in customs clearance for machinery.
Strict environmental compliance for industrial plants.
Currency transfer rules (Office des Changes approval for foreign capital).
Competition from low-cost imports from Asia.

FAQs

1. Is it possible for a 100% foreign investor to open this company in Morocco?

Yes. Morocco allows full foreign ownership, with no requirement for a local partner.

2. What is the minimum capital required?

There’s no fixed minimum, but industrial projects typically require 5–10 million MAD for equipment and facilities.

3. How long does setup take?

Company formation: 7business days . Plant installation: 6–12 months.

4. Are there tax benefits?

Yes. Free zones offer reduced corporate tax, customs exemptions, and VAT incentives.

Conclusion

Opening a solar mounting structures fabrication company in Morocco is not just possible — it’s strategic. With massive renewable energy projects, strong industrial infrastructure, and export potential, Morocco is positioning itself as a renewable hub for Africa and Europe.

Book your free face-to-face consultation today

At BH Adviser, we guide investors through company setup, tax optimization, licensing, payroll, and industrial compliance so your project can start smoothly.

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