UAE-based Alec Engineering and Contracting has announced that its joint venture with Lebanese builder Butec has secured the design-and-build contract for the first waste-to-energy (WtE) plant coming up in Abu Dhabi.

The Alec-Butec JV will be teaming up with the Swiss-based Hitachi Zosen Innova (HZI), a company renowned for its expertise in WtE technology, to collaborate on the construction of this project.

Alec said the scope of work for the JV includes overseeing the engineering, procurement and construction of all non-process-related activities, encompassing tasks such as civil engineering, concrete and structural steel work, installation of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems, as well as building services.

Additionally, the duo will manage external works and site infrastructure development, it stated.

According to Alec, the ultra-large waste incineration facility, situated near the Al Dhafra landfill, will process 900,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste annually over the next 30 years.

The aim of the project is to prevent the release of nearly 1.1 million tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions per annum. Furthermore, the plant will add 80MW of power generation capacity from a non-fossil fuel source, it stated.

On the contract win, Sean McQue, the Managing Director (Construction) at Alec, said: “We are pleased to have been selected for this crucial project, highlighting our commitment to sustainable progress within the region.”

“This WtE facility marks a significant milestone in Abu Dhabi’s endeavours to tackle waste management issues and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Alec’s proficiency, combined with Butec’s established excellence in design-build ventures, guarantees the successful execution of this landmark initiative.”