Dubai recently achieved a remarkable milestone by unveiling the world’s largest and most efficient waste-to-energy facility in Warsan. The inauguration of this ground breaking facility, with an investment of Dh4 billion, was carried out by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai.
In a tweet, Sheikh Hamdan expressed his pride in inaugurating the facility, stating that it reinforces Dubai’s status as a global leader in sustainable infrastructure.
This state-of-the-art waste-to-energy plant had an impressive capacity to generate 220 megawatt-hours of renewable energy. This energy output is equivalent to powering approximately 135,000 residential units, making a substantial contribution to Dubai’s energy needs.
Moreover, the facility had been designed and built to process an astounding two million tonnes of waste annually, without causing any adverse environmental impact. It employs advanced technologies that ensure efficient waste management while meeting global sustainability benchmarks.
The construction of this landmark project began in 2021, aligning with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. His vision aims to position Dubai as a global model for sustainable development and consolidate its reputation as the best city to live and work in. The waste-to-energy facility covers an expansive area of 400,000 square meters, contributing significantly to Dubai Municipality’s strategic objective of reducing and diverting waste from landfills by 2030.
By diverting waste from landfills, the facility will make a substantial environmental impact. It is estimated to reduce carbon emissions by 2,400 tonnes annually, thereby mitigating climate change. Additionally, it supports the objectives of the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference COP 28 and the UAE’s Year of Sustainability by minimizing the volume of solid waste directed to landfills and cultivating alternative sources of clean energy.
The waste-to-energy facility in Warsan not only positions Dubai at the forefront of sustainable infrastructure but also contributes to the UAE’s broader goals of diversification and environmental sustainability. Dubai Municipality has partnered with a consortium of five local and international private sector companies, including Dubai Holding, Dubal Holding, Itoshu, Hitachi Zosen Innova, and Besix Group, to bring this ambitious project to life.
The facility’s operations involve cutting-edge waste management and waste-to-energy processes, incorporating the latest Japanese and Swiss technologies. All emissions generated during the process are thoroughly treated using a textile filter, ensuring compliance with the highest environmental standards. The facility also employs comprehensive measures to eliminate any odors resulting from waste management, prioritizing the well-being and comfort of nearby communities.
Dubai Municipality signed a significant agreement with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to purchase energy generated by the waste-to-energy facility for 35 years. This collaboration ensures the distribution of clean energy to end-users, further enhancing Dubai’s sustainable infrastructure and contributing to its clean energy goals.
