DEWA announces historic $914m Hassyan Phase 1 IWP with ACWA Power

Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, the MD & CEO of Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), declared Saudi Arabia‘s ACWA Power as the ‘Preferred Bidder’ for the groundbreaking 180 Million Imperial Gallon per Day (MIGD) Sea Water Reverse Osmosis Hassyan Phase 1 Independent Water Producer (IWP) project. This pioneering project, representing an investment of AED 3.357 billion ($914 million), has set a global record with a remarkably low bid of 0.36536 USD/m³ of desalinated water.

DEWA’s new venture is not just massive but groundbreaking in its approach. Being the world’s largest for water production using Sea Water Reverse Osmosis (SWRO) technology powered by solar energy, this innovative move is the brainchild of DEWA’s first-ever Independent Water Producer (IWP) model. With the current water desalination capacity in Dubai at 490 MIGD, the addition of this water desalination project will boost the capacity to an impressive 670 MIGD by 2026.

The water desalination project, a testament to Dubai’s vision for sustained growth, seamlessly integrates with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. Designed to cater to the escalating demand for water across various sectors in Dubai, it will strategically support the Emirate’s flourishing construction industry and anticipated population boom.

DEWA selects ACWA Power as preferred bidder for Phase 1 of Hassyan SWRO project. Photo courtesy of Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (PJSC).

The global market showed immense interest, with DEWA receiving a staggering 29 expressions from international behemoths. Post the release of the Request for Qualification (RFQ) in October 2022, six international entities were shortlisted. Two major contenders, ACWA Power and Abu Dhabi National Energy Company PJSC (TAQA), submitted their bids in May 2023, responding to the Request for Proposal (RFP) rolled out in December 2022.

In a profound statement, Al Tayer emphasized the significance of the project in echoing the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum for a sustainable future. The project stands as a testament to Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050 and the Net Zero Carbon Emissions Strategy 2050, aiming to transition to 100% clean energy sources by the mid-century. With a focus on SWRO technology, which is energy-efficient compared to traditional methods, DEWA is poised to achieve 100% desalinated water production through sustainable means by 2030.

Al Tayer further highlighted DEWA’s unwavering commitment to elevating Dubai’s water desalination capacity, aiming for a leap from the current 490 MIGD to 730 MIGD. DEWA’s relentless pursuit of excellence ensures world-class availability, reliability, and efficiency, all while incorporating advanced technologies and innovative strategies. This steadfast vision paves the way for the UAE‘s ambitious goal to emerge as a global leader by its centennial in 2071.