Operis played a pivotal role in leading Abu Dhabi’s first Waste-to-Energy (WTE) project towards financial close through a meticulous model audit. The consortium, which comprises of Japan’s Marubeni Corporation, Switzerland’s Hitachi Zosen Inova AG, and Japan Overseas Infrastructure Investment Corporation for Transport & Urban Development (JOIN).
Set to be the world’s most advanced WtE facility, and one of the region’s largest, the project encompasses the financing, construction, operation, and maintenance of a state-of-the-art WtE plant near the Al-Dhafra landfill. The facility will process 900,000 tonnes of waste annually and generate enough electricity to power up to 52,500 households. This initiative significantly advances Abu Dhabi’s sustainability goals, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by up to 1.1 million tonnes a year, directly supporting the ‘UAE Net Zero by 2050’ strategic initiative, and aligns with the UAE’s aim to divert 75% of waste away from landfills. The project also represents a leap towards a circular economy, utilising advanced moving grate technology to convert municipal solid waste into electricity using a high-efficiency steam turbine generator set.
Operis facilitated the transaction by conducting a comprehensive model audit and delivering a sensitivity report as part of the due diligence process. This rigorous audit process was essential in supporting the consortium’s competitive bid and achieving a seamless financial close. This project exemplifies the global commitment to sustainable initiatives and advanced technologies, highlighting collaborative efforts, including Islamic finance, towards a sustainable future in the UAE. Operis is proud to have contributed to this transformative endeavour.
