SHARJAH, 31st October 2024: The Sharjah Waste-to-Energy plant, a pioneering facility operated through a partnership between BEEAH, Masdar, and Veolia, has achieved a significant milestone by processing 500,000 tonnes of waste since its inauguration in 2023. As the first commercial-scale waste-to-energy plant in the region, it plays a crucial role in Sharjah’s mission to eliminate landfill waste by converting hard-to-recycle materials into low-carbon energy. This innovative facility complements integrated recycling initiatives in the emirate.
Producing 30 megawatts (MW) of low-carbon energy per hour, the plant can power approximately 28,000 homes and offset 450,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, furthering the UAE’s sustainability agenda.
SHARJAH, 31st October 2024
Marking a substantial advancement in Sharjah’s ambition to achieve zero waste to landfill, BEEAH, Masdar, and Veolia recently celebrated the successful processing of 500,000 tonnes of waste at the Sharjah Waste-to-Energy facility. This milestone highlights the collaborative effort of these organizations, along with officials from the Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (SEWA) and Sharjah Municipality, who attended the celebration at BEEAH Headquarters.
Since its inception, the Sharjah Waste-to-Energy facility has successfully mitigated 750,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, recovered 2,000 tonnes of metal, and delivered 300 million kWh of electricity to the public grid through a power purchase agreement with SEWA. Remarkably, the facility has operated for over 300,000 hours without a lost-time incident, showcasing its commitment to safety and efficiency.
A New Era for Waste Management and Energy Production
This milestone signifies a new chapter for the operational partnership between BEEAH, Masdar, and Veolia as they pursue a zero-waste future in Sharjah and promote clean energy across the UAE and beyond. Khaled Al Huraimel, Group CEO and Vice Chairman of BEEAH, stated, “This achievement is more than just a number; it’s a vital step toward total landfill diversion in Sharjah, moving beyond our current 90% rate. It exemplifies a sustainable model for waste-to-energy innovation.”
Masdar’s CEO, Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, expressed pride in the swift accomplishment of this milestone, emphasizing the project’s role in driving sustainable solutions and contributing to the UAE’s clean energy objectives. “By converting waste into valuable energy, we are reducing our reliance on traditional fuels and fostering a circular economy that benefits our communities and the environment,” he added.
Philippe Bourdeaux, Executive Vice President Africa & Middle East at Veolia, highlighted the holistic approach to waste management. “This milestone aligns perfectly with Veolia’s ‘GreenUp’ strategy, aimed at leading the charge in decarbonization and resource regeneration,” he noted.
A State-of-the-Art Facility
The Sharjah Waste-to-Energy plant, a collaboration between BEEAH and Masdar, is designed to produce 30 MW of low-carbon energy, significantly contributing to Sharjah’s zero waste to landfill goal. Established in 2017 and enhanced through a partnership with Veolia in 2022, this facility serves as a global benchmark for sustainable collaboration and innovation.
Equipped with advanced technology, including a CNIM boiler and a LAB flue gas treatment system, the plant ensures high efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Its operational success underscores its alignment with the UAE Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to enhance clean energy targets and reduce the carbon footprint associated with power generation.
Looking Ahead
As the UAE continues to transform waste-related challenges into development opportunities, the Sharjah Waste-to-Energy facility stands as a testament to the potential of collaborative efforts in achieving sustainability goals. This landmark achievement not only paves the way for a greener future but also offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of waste management and energy production.
