​The countries of the Middle East and north Africa have long neglected their most abundant source of clean energy. But with budgets strained and demand for electricity rising, many are now embracing solar power. Morocco is building one of the largest solar plants in the world; now an importer of energy, it is hoping soon to be able to export some electricity to Europe. Jordan, which historically has depended on Egypt and Iraq for fuel, is looking to shore up its energy supply. As the price of photovoltaic cells declines, even countries rich in hydrocarbons are taking advantage. Bids to run the latest phase of Dubai’s enormous solar plant would make it cheaper than those powered by natural gas or coal. Saudi Arabia, which uses oil to produce electricity, is looking to free up more of the black stuff for export by becoming a leader in solar technology. Challenges remain, such as improving solar-power storage systems. But more energy is now devoted to finding solutions.