Veolia Secures Water Technology Contract For Energy-Efficient Desalination Plant

Veolia, a global leader in water technology, is set to contribute key technology to the Hassyan seawater desalination plant in Dubai, UAE, in partnership with its subsidiary SIDEM. This initiative, commissioned by Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) and ACWA Power, marks a significant milestone as it will become the world's second-largest desalination plant utilizing reverse osmosis (RO) technology and the largest to be powered by solar energy. This endeavour underscores Veolia's dedication, as outlined in its new GreenUp strategic plan, to delivering sustainable, low-carbon, and energy-efficient solutions while ensuring the conservation of water resources amidst the challenges posed by climate change. Situated approximately 55 kilometres southwest of Dubai Creek, the Hassyan desalination plant will boast an impressive capacity of 818,000 cubic meters per day (m3 /d) — equivalent to 180 million imperial gallons per day (MIGD) — catering to the water needs of two million people. Operational commencement is slated for 2026, with a gradual scaling up to full capacity expected by 2027. This endeavour aligns with a broader initiative aimed at enhancing water desalination capabilities sustainably to meet the burgeoning demand for water across residential and commercial sectors in Dubai. Furthermore, it will claim the distinction of being the world's largest desalination plant powered by solar energy.

Goals & Objectives

Notably, the project emphasizes exceptional energy efficiency, boasting a remarkably low energy consumption rate of 2.9 kilowatt-hours per cubic meter (kWh/m3). SIDEM's extensive proficiency in large-scale desalination, encompassing pivotal pre-treatment and post-treatment phases, has been instrumental in optimizing the efficacy of RO technology, resulting in a 35% reduction in energy consumption by RO desalination plants over the past decade. Strategically located close to the Jebel Ali Wetland Sanctuary, a Ramsar-protected site acknowledged for its ecological significance, the project adheres to stringent environmental protocols. Construction activities have been meticulously scheduled to avoid disrupting the nesting season of endangered turtles. Moreover, the plant complies rigorously with environmental regulations concerning brine discharge, with discharge points carefully selected to mitigate any potential adverse impacts on the ecosystem.

Estelle Brachlianoff, Chief Executive Officer of Veolia, said: “All over the world, people are looking for solutions to climate change. The watchword is adaptation: at Veolia, we have the solutions to act as a catalyst for ecological transformation, which is the thrust of our GreenUp strategic plan. This latest achievement confirms our leading position in water technologies. Our commitment to high operational and environmental standards has been the driving force behind our leadership in desalination for over 50 years. Our efforts have made the impossible possible, reducing the energy consumption of large-scale desalination to 2.9 kWh/m3.”