His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, marked a momentous occasion on Tuesday as he inaugurated the first phase of the world’s largest waste-to-energy facility in Warsan, with a staggering investment worth Dh4 billion.
In his remarks, the Crown Prince lauded the remarkable project, highlighting its significance in solidifying Dubai’s position as a global leader in sustainable infrastructure. He expressed his pride on Twitter, stating, “The facility is capable of generating 220 megawatt-hours of renewable energy, which can power 135,000 residential units.”
Two out of the facility’s five lines have been activated, processing approximately 2,300 tonnes of solid waste daily. The generator produces electricity by employing an advanced process that utilizes steam pressure to create rotational energy. Presently, the facility generates around 80 MWh of renewable energy. However, with the subsequent phases, the facility’s output is expected to expand to 220 MWh, equivalent to the daily production of 5,280 MWh.
The launch of operations brings Dubai one step closer to realizing its vision of creating the world’s finest sustainable ecosystem. The Waste to Energy Centre will significantly contribute to the emirate’s efforts to enhance environmental sustainability and combat climate change by diverting waste from landfills and reducing 2,400 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.
Moreover, the facility will increase the share of clean energy sources in Dubai’s energy mix. Through its innovative processes, the centre converts daily waste, equivalent to that generated by 3 million people, into energy. Additionally, it utilizes recycled water to create the steam required to power the electricity-generating turbine.
The Waste to Energy Centre in Warsan establishes a strong foundation for an intelligent, sustainable, and environmentally friendly waste collection, management, and treatment system. This aligns with the objectives of the Dubai Clean Energy Strategy 2050, which aims to derive 75% of the city’s energy needs from clean sources by 2050 and position Dubai as a global hub for clean energy and a green economy by the same year.
Construction of this groundbreaking project commenced in 2021, following the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice-President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai, to elevate the emirate’s status as a model for sustainable development and establish it as the ultimate city for living and working.
The project is scheduled for completion by 2024, and its implementation will play a pivotal role in managing Dubai’s increasing population stemming from the surge in economic activities. By significantly reducing the potential volume of municipal waste in landfills and creating alternative energy sources, the project will contribute to Dubai’s sustainable growth and prosperity.
