Saadiyat Island RO Desalination Project Draws Four Key Proposals

Emirates Water and Electricity Company (EWEC) has received four proposals for the Saadiyat Island Reverse Osmosis (RO) Independent Water Project (IWP). The proposals came from Acciona Agua, Engie, GS Inima Environmental, and a consortium of FCC Aqualia and Orascom Construction Industries.

The Saadiyat Island RO project will feature a new RO seawater desalination plant on Saadiyat Island. This facility will use advanced, low-carbon-intensive RO technology to desalinate about 60 million imperial gallons of seawater daily, which is nearly 273,000 m3/day. This project marks the seventh RO water desalination initiative in EWEC’s portfolio.

Othman Al Ali, Chief Executive Officer of EWEC, stated, "EWEC is focused on transitioning to a reverse osmosis-centred infrastructure, and with this key project we grow a step closer to achieving our strategic goal of producing 90 percent of water through reverse osmosis capacity by 2030, and ensuring nearly carbon-free water production by 2031. Our mission is aligned with the realisation of the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036, ultimately contributing to the achievement of the UAE Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative. We look forward to collaborating with the awarded partner to further strengthen Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s position as a leading hub for sustainable development."

Low-carbon-intensive RO technology can cut emissions by over 85 percent compared to traditional thermal desalination methods. By 2031, EWEC aims to reduce carbon emissions from water desalination in Abu Dhabi to less than one kilogram per cubic metre.

The request for proposals (RFP) was issued after a qualification process following expressions of interest (EOI). A total of 41 companies and consortiums submitted EOIs, with 19 qualifying for the RFP stage after submitting statements of qualification.

Evaluation and Future Plans

The submitted proposals will now undergo a thorough technical and commercial evaluation process. The announcement of the awarded proposal and the execution of the Water Purchase Agreement are anticipated in Q4 2024. Commercial operations are expected to commence by Q3 2027.

This project aligns with EWEC's broader strategy to enhance water security in line with the UAE Water Security Strategy 2036. It also supports the UAE's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

With inputs from WAM