ALEC BUTEC, a joint venture (JV) between ALEC Engineering and Contracting (ALEC) and BUTEC, has received a contract to develop a waste-to-energy (WtE) plant in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The JV has partnered with Switzerland's Hitachi Zosen Innova (HZI), a specialist in waste-to-energy technology, to lead the construction. 

The project is said to become Abu Dhabi's first WtE facility.  

It will be located near the Al-Dhafra landfill and is set to process 900,000 tonnes (t) of non-recyclable waste each year for the next three decades. 

The JV will be responsible for the engineering, procurement, and construction of all non-process-related activities.  

This includes civil engineering, concrete and structural steel work, and the installation of mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems and building services.  

It will also manage the development of external works and site infrastructure. 

BUTEC country general manager Hani Houalla said: “BUTEC’s design-build expertise coupled with ALEC’s distinguished construction capability positions us as a strong team ready to deliver impactful infrastructure projects like Abu Dhabi’s waste-to-energy facility. 

“We are proud to contribute to the UAE’s decarbonisation agenda and to this significant development.” 

The facility's construction aims to mitigate the release of approximately 1.1 million tonnes of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions annually.  

Additionally, it will contribute 80MW of electricity generated from a non-fossil fuel source to the country's power grid.  

ALEC Construction managing director Sean McQue said: “We are pleased to have been selected for this crucial project, highlighting our commitment to sustainable progress within the region. This waste-to-energy facility marks a significant milestone in Abu Dhabi’s endeavours to tackle waste management issues and diminish greenhouse gas emissions.  

“ALEC’s proficiency, combined with BUTEC’s established excellence in design-build ventures, guarantees the successful execution of this landmark initiative.” 

In March last year, ALEC and Bauer International were appointed by property developer Marjan to carry out integral construction works at Wynn Resort in Ras Al Khaimah, UAE. 

The resort property is scheduled to open in early 2027.