Argonne and UM6P join forces to advance green energy and water research
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Argonne National Laboratory and University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P) have entered into a collaborative agreement to advance green energy technology and water management research.
Argonne Laboratory Director Paul Kearns and UM6P President Hicham El Habti signed the memorandum of understanding (MOU) during a ceremony at UM6P's campus in Benguerir.
This five-year partnership will exchange scientific and technical information, including publications and reports. Both institutions will organise meetings and cooperative activities to discuss technical topics and facilitate the exchange of scientists, engineers, and specialists for collaborative projects.
Kearns stated:
“We are excited to see what discoveries and innovations will result from our ongoing partnership. By working together, we’ll open new scientific frontiers for both our countries’ futures.”
A key focus of the collaboration is green energy technology, which includes both energy storage and renewable energy. Advanced battery research is essential for achieving the International Energy Agency’s goal of net zero emissions by 2050, with electric vehicles playing a critical role. Morocco’s raw phosphoric acid materials offer potential for developing efficient lithium iron phosphate cathodes, contributing to this effort.
The partnership will also promote renewable energy, such as clean hydrogen. Argonne is a member of the Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2), a coalition of 70 organisations working to build a clean hydrogen economy. The knowledge and advancements gained from this alliance will be shared with UM6P to enhance renewable energy use in both the U.S. and Morocco.
In addition to energy research, the MOU aims to address clean water challenges, which are particularly pressing in Morocco. Argonne's extensive water research includes material discovery for clean water innovations, development of new treatment and sustainability systems, and the application of machine learning to combat water contamination. These efforts will support Morocco's water management needs.
The collaboration between Argonne and UM6P is expected to drive significant advancements in green energy and water management, benefiting both nations and contributing to global sustainability efforts.
El Habti highlighted the significance of this collaboration, commenting:
“Today marks a significant milestone in our journey towards sustainable innovation. The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding with Argonne National Laboratory underscores our commitment to advancing research and development in renewable energy, energy grids, and water management.
“Together, we aim to leverage our collective expertise to create transformative solutions that will benefit not only our communities but also the global society.”
