The Dark Side of the Sun A Critical Discourse Analysis of Ecological Modernisation in the Context of the Solar Economy in Morocco

Abstract: This thesis is a critical investigation of the emerging solar economy in Morocco. The launch of the Moroccan Solar Plan in 2009 has attracted substantial amounts of foreign investment. Notably, several multilateral development banks support the country’s large-scale solar projects. Instead of climate change mitigation however, their engagement is rather framed by an eco-modern ideology that aims at the reconciliation of economic growth and environmental sustainability. Through a critical discourse analysis this thesis studies to what extent ecological modernisation discourse is present in four texts in which key stakeholders who represent European, German, African, and Moroccan interests justify their respective engagement in Morocco’s solar sector. By drawing on eco-modernisation discourse the actors present the sector as progressive and climate-friendly. The discourse is coupled with a hegemonic development discourse that equates growth and development. Both discourses are embedded in a complex web of neoliberal politics, unequal power relations and diverging group interests. The search for the topic of climate change in the texts revealed that it is dealt with in a vague manner that leaves open in what ways economic growth contributes to climate change mitigation.