SOMAS Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence and Inaugurates 4th Storage Cavity

The Moroccan Storage Company (SOMAS) marks a historic milestone this year by celebrating its 50th anniversary and inaugurating its fourth LPG underground salt cavern storage. This event underscores SOMAS's ongoing commitment to Morocco's energy security and its crucial role in the country's energy transition.

A Leap Forward in Storage Capacity

The newly commissioned salt Cavern represents a significant advancement for SOMAS and Morocco. As Mr. Tawfiq HAMOUMI, the President of SOMAS explains: "This fourth cavern increases our LPG storage capacity by 55%, from 200,000 to 310,000 metric tons, extending our national LPG autonomy beyond 40 days." This 400 million dirhams project directly responds to the Royal Directives ensure sovereignty of the kingdom over essential products, including energy.

Half a Century of Expertise

Founded 50 years ago, SOMAS has established itself as a leader in underground storage in salt caverns. The President traces this evolution: "Since our creation 50 years ago, SOMAS has accumulated expertise recognised at national and international levels. We've grown from our first Cavern in 1974 to four state-of-the-art caverns today." Over the years, SOMAS achieved significant milestones, including privatisation in 1996, ISO certification for quality, health, and safety standards, and recognition as a responsible company through CGEM's CSR labeling. Additionally, it was named one of Morocco's "Best Places to Work" in 2020.

Overcoming Challenges for a Secure Energy Future

The completion of the fourth Cavern was not without challenges. "The five-year project involved numerous technical and human challenges." notes the President. "It required 60,000 man-days of work and created about 50 jobs." This success testifies to SOMAS's resilience and its ability to mobilise resources for projects of national and continental importance.

A Look to the Future

SOMAS is not resting on its laurels. The President outlines the company's future vision: "We aim to consolidate our position as a responsible leader in strategic underground storage serving the national energy transition. We're focusing on increasing capacity, integrating innovative solutions, and positioning ourselves as a key player in LPG storage."

This vision aligns perfectly with Morocco's energy transition goals, placing SOMAS at the heart of this crucial transformation.

A Message of Gratitude and Commitment

In conclusion to our interview, Mr. Tawfiq HAMOUMI expressed his appreciation: "I express my profound gratitude to all those who have contributed to our success over these 50 years. As we celebrate our past, we're excited about our future. We're committed to ensuring energy security for Morocco while supporting the Kingdom's transition to a more sustainable energy future."

As SOMAS celebrates this dual milestone - 50 years of existence and the inauguration of its fourth Cavern - the company reaffirms its vital role in Morocco's energy landscape. With its increased capacity and renewed commitment, SOMAS is well-positioned to continue playing a central role in energy security and the transition towards a sustainable energy future in Morocco.