Construction Contract Awarded for Innovative Waste-to-Energy Plant in Casablanca
A significant advancement in waste management technology is underway in Casablanca, where a consortium has awarded a crucial construction contract to the Lebanese engineering and construction firm BUTEC. This development will be in collaboration with the Swiss company Kanadevia Inova, which specializes in waste-to-energy systems. Together, they aim to establish a state-of-the-art facility capable of processing approximately 1.5 million tons of non-recyclable waste each year. This ambitious initiative is part of a comprehensive 33.5-year concession agreement between the municipality of Casablanca and a consortium that includes Nareva, Kanadevia Inova, and Itochu Corporation.
The new plant is strategically located northwest of the Mediouna landfill in the Casablanca-Settat region. Once operational, it is projected to convert waste into electricity with a generation capacity of 126 megawatts. This innovative facility not only aims to mitigate the reliance on landfills but is also expected to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, with estimates suggesting a reduction of up to one ton of carbon dioxide-equivalent emissions for every ton of waste processed.
Transforming Waste Management for Greater Casablanca
This pioneering project is designed to benefit over 4.2 million residents across Greater Casablanca, marking a critical step in the region’s shift towards more sustainable waste management practices. The collaboration under this agreement positions Kanadevia Inova to supply essential waste-to-energy technology and processing systems, alongside financing and long-term operational and maintenance support for the facility.
Meanwhile, BUTEC will take charge of the civil engineering and construction aspects of the project. Their responsibilities will encompass the construction of the plant's buildings, infrastructure, and facilities, covering a range of technical areas including civil, structural, architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing works. This multifaceted approach aims to ensure that the facility meets high standards of efficiency and reliability.
The project is particularly timely, as the Mediouna landfill has been the subject of ongoing complaints from local residents regarding unpleasant odors, insect infestations, and concerns over air quality and groundwater contamination. Casablanca generates around 4,000 tons of household and similar waste daily, with a substantial portion—approximately 70%—composed of organic material with high moisture content. This unique waste composition presents significant challenges for treatment, necessitating the implementation of specialized systems to effectively separate waste from leachate, a potentially harmful liquid produced by decomposing waste.
As reported by en.hespress.com.
