The second phase of the solar power plant at the Construction and Demolition Waste Recycling Facility in the Al Dhafra region is operational, as per the Abu Dhabi Waste Management Center (Tadweer).
With the completion of the second phase, Tadweer, in coordination with the investor of the Al Dhafra C&D Waste Recycling Facility, has significantly enhanced the facility’s solar energy utilisation by increasing its capacity to 600KW per hour, up by 350KW per hour, the statement said.
In addition to enhancing the facility’s operational efficiency, the increased capacity will help lower its carbon footprint by avoiding more than 1,300 tons of carbon emissions, equivalent to planting 4,133 trees, and saving 480,000 litres of diesel on a monthly basis, Tadweer explained. This will significantly contribute to protecting the emirate’s environment and cutting harmful emissions.
The facility is billed as the first of its kind in the world to be 90% solar powered and is said to be aligned with the UAE’s plans to mitigate climate change including the UAE Green Agenda Programs (2015-2030) and the National Climate Change Plan of the UAE (2017–2050).
“Since its inception, Tadweer has put in place effective operational plans for various sectors of integrated waste management to ensure a safe, healthy and sustainable environment in Abu Dhabi to support the leadership’s vision of promoting sustainable development. In line with this priority, the Center has been adopting innovative solutions and the latest international practices that help prevent pollution and harmful emissions to contribute to the preservation of environment and sustainable development,” remarked Dr Salem Al Kaabi, Director General of Tadweer.
Tadweer states that it installed 1,656 solar cells at an area covering 11,000sqm, with a capacity to produce a total 600KW, equivalent to generating 878,000KW energy from diesel, saving an annual diesel consumption of up to 480,000 litres. This will help prevent an average of 1,300 tons of carbon emission per year, the firm said.
As part of its continued efforts to promote sustainable energy at its various facilities, Tadweer has adopted a strategy to increase the use of clean energy sources at its current and future projects, and has outlined ambitious plans to achieve its sustainable objectives, the statement noted.
Kaabi added, “In enhancing the efficiency of solar energy utilisation at Al Dhafra C&D Waste Recycling Facility, we aim to contribute to the country’s transition to a green economy through supporting its climate change adaptation strategies and improving the quality of life of its population. At Tadweer, we are committed to working with all relevant entities to achieve the objectives of National Climate Change Plan and foster the emirate’s sustainable economic growth. Tadweer will continue to adopt innovative solutions to minimise the adverse effects of its operations on both climate and the environment.”
