Sharjah Waste-to-Energy Facility Hits 1M Tonnes, Boosts Clean Energy with Phase 2 Expansion

The Sharjah Waste to Energy Facility has processed over 1,000,000 tonnes of waste since its commissioning, marking a significant milestone in the emirate’s journey toward zero waste-to-landfill while supporting the UAE’s broader net-zero ambitions.

The facility, which began operations in 2022, continues to generate 30MW of low-carbon electricity for the public grid, while offsetting approximately 450,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually through landfill diversion. Developed by the Emirates Waste to Energy Company—a joint venture between BEEAH and Tadweer Group—the project stands as the region’s first commercial-scale waste-to-energy facility.

As part of Sharjah’s integrated waste management ecosystem, the plant has contributed to achieving a 93% landfill diversion rate, supported by advanced recycling operations at BEEAH’s Waste Management Complex in Al Saja’a. The facility has rapidly scaled its operations, growing from processing 100,000 tonnes of waste in its first year to reaching the current milestone—equivalent to diverting waste weighing as much as two Burj Khalifas.

The project is now moving forward with its Phase 2 expansion, which will see the addition of a second identical plant. Upon completion, the expansion is expected to double key performance metrics, including increasing power generation capacity from 30MW to 60MW, boosting annual waste processing from 300,000 tonnes to 600,000 tonnes, and raising CO₂ displacement to nearly 1 million tonnes. The number of households powered is also projected to rise from 28,000 to approximately 60,000.

The expansion will be supported through continued collaboration with the Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority to ensure seamless integration into the public grid.

Waste-to-energy remains a critical component of the UAE’s energy diversification strategy, complementing major clean energy initiatives such as the Dubai Waste-to-Energy Plant, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park, and the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant.

Commenting on the milestone, Hamza Al Jefri stated that reaching the 1-million-tonne mark highlights the viability of waste-to-energy solutions in reducing landfill dependency while meeting clean energy demand. He added that Phase 2 will further scale operations and strengthen the company’s contribution to sustainability goals.

Fahad Shehail emphasized that the project reflects strong partnerships and leadership vision, noting that the expansion will accelerate Sharjah’s transition toward a circular economy and enhance long-term environmental value.

Located adjacent to BEEAH’s Waste Management Complex, the facility forms part of a broader network of 12 integrated waste processing plants that recover recyclables and convert residual waste into energy. The plant employs thermal treatment technology, converting waste into high-pressure steam to drive turbine generators, while adhering to stringent European Union environmental standards for emissions and residue treatment.

In 2025, Tadweer Group acquired a stake in the facility from Masdar, reinforcing its position as a key partner alongside BEEAH.

Building on the success of the Sharjah facility, the Emirates Waste to Energy Company plans to expand its portfolio with additional projects across the UAE and the wider region, contributing to a sustainable and low-carbon future.