IMECO to Build Desert Bioenergy Pilot Project in UAE

Based on the research of Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, the Sustainable Bioenergy Research Consortium (SBRC) announced that it is awarding a contract to International Mechanical & Electrical Co. L.L.C. (IMECO) to construct the world's first bioenergy pilot project to use desert land and seawater to produce both bioenergy and food in UAE. The project will be operational by late summer.

The project is based upon an integrated, closed-loop system. The technology uses coastal seawater to raise fish and shrimp for food. Its nutrient-rich wastewater then fertilizes feedstock plants for aviation biofuel production. The plants thrive in arid conditions and don't require fresh water to grow.

Lastly, the effluent will then be diverted into cultivated mangroves back to the sea, further adding nutrients and providing valuable carbon storage. The goal of this pilot project is to demonstrate the viability and sustainability of the integrated bioenergy process in terms of food and fuel production, suitable land use, reduced carbon emissions and wastewater clean-up.