Sharjah Waste-to-Energy Plant Processes 1 Million Tons of Waste, Boosting UAE Clean Energy Goals

Environment

Sharjah Waste-to-Energy Plant Processes 1 Million Tons of Waste, Boosting UAE Clean Energy Goals

The Sharjah Waste to Energy Facility has reached a major operational milestone, successfully processing 1 million tons of waste since its inauguration in 2022. The achievement marks a significant step in Sharjah’s journey toward zero waste to landfill while strengthening the UAE’s clean energy ambitions.

Announced by BEEAH, the milestone comes as the facility prepares for its Phase 2 expansion, which is expected to double its contribution to sustainable energy production in line with the UAE Energy Strategy 2050.

Developed by the Emirates Waste to Energy Company—a joint venture between BEEAH and Tadweer Group—the plant is the region’s first commercial-scale waste-to-energy facility. It currently generates 30 megawatts of low-carbon electricity for the Sharjah grid and offsets approximately 450,000 tons of CO₂ emissions annually by diverting waste from landfills.

Since its launch, the facility has played a central role in achieving Sharjah’s 93 percent landfill diversion rate, forming part of a broader circular economy ecosystem anchored within BEEAH’s Waste Management Complex in Al Saja’a.

The upcoming Phase 2 expansion will significantly scale operations, with power output expected to increase from 30 MW to 60 MW, and annual waste processing capacity rising from 300,000 tons to 600,000 tons. Carbon displacement is projected to nearly double to 1 million tons annually, while the number of homes powered will increase from around 28,000 to approximately 60,000 households.

The expanded capacity will be integrated into the grid in collaboration with the Sharjah Electricity Water and Gas Authority (SEWA), supporting the UAE’s growing clean energy portfolio.

Waste-to-energy remains a key pillar of the country’s diversification strategy, complementing major projects such as the Dubai Waste-to-Energy Plant, the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, and the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant.

Hamza Al Jefri said the milestone demonstrates the effectiveness of waste-to-energy solutions in reducing landfill dependency while generating clean power. He added that Phase 2 will further scale impact and provide sustainable solutions for hard-to-recycle waste.

Fahad Shehail noted that the achievement reflects the strength of strategic partnerships and innovation in advancing near-total landfill diversion. He emphasised that the expansion will play a critical role in supporting the UAE’s transition to a circular, low-carbon economy.

The facility operates using advanced thermal treatment technology, converting residual waste into energy through a closed-loop process that meets European Union environmental standards. Located adjacent to BEEAH’s integrated waste management complex, it forms part of a network of 12 facilities that recover recyclables and produce alternative fuels.

The project also aligns with national efforts led by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment to reduce waste and promote its use as an economic resource.

Looking ahead, the Emirates Waste to Energy Company aims to replicate the success of the Sharjah project across the UAE and the wider region, contributing to a sustainable, low-carbon future.