Artificial Intelligence and Smart Electric Meters in Morocco: A Perception Study

In the rapidly evolving digital landscape, artificial intelligence (AI) is profoundly transforming the global energy sector. Since 2016, Morocco's National Electricity and Drinking Water Office (ONEE) has been piloting the Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) project, deploying AI-based smart meters to modernize the national electrical grid. The 2024 decree n° 804.24.2, implementing law n° 82-21 on electrical self-production, reinforces this initiative while highlighting challenges related to social acceptability, appropriation, and organizational engagement toward AI.Leveraging comprehensive documentary analysis and semi-structured interviews with ONEE executives and engineers, this study investigates how organizational perception and engagement can foster AI acceptance and appropriation. Results reveal a positive AI perception among executives (70%) and engineers (75%), demonstrating significant organizational commitment. The research identifies regulatory, ethical, technological, socioeconomic, communication, and environmental challenges.While focused on ONEE's leadership and technical personnel, the study provides valuable insights into AI's potential for modernizing Morocco's electrical infrastructure. The hierarchical challenge analysis offers strategic guidance for technological integration. A complementary consumer perception study is planned for early 2025 to further explore societal implications.