Spanish infrastructure giant ACCIONA has secured ISO 50001 certification for energy management at two of its major desalination facilities in Qatar, marking a significant step in the company’s global sustainability efforts.
The achievement, the first of its kind for ACCIONA, highlights the firm’s dedication to enhancing energy efficiency in water treatment operations.
The certified plants, Umm Al Houl and Ras Abu Fontas 3, are crucial components of Qatar’s water infrastructure.
Umm Al Houl, located near Doha, features a daily capacity of 564,000 cubic meters, supplying potable water to approximately 1.1 million residents. Ras Abu Fontas 3, situated in Al Wakrah, produces 165,000 cubic meters per day, serving around 1.1 million people.
Both facilities employ reverse osmosis technology, a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional thermal desalination methods.
The certification reflects the company’s commitment to sustainable operations and energy efficiency. It also validates its efforts to implement advanced technological solutions aimed at optimising energy use and reducing environmental impact.
The ISO 50001 standard provides a framework for organizations to develop policies for more efficient energy use, set targets to meet those policies, and review the effectiveness of these efforts. By adhering to this standard, ACCIONA aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs, aligning with global sustainability goals.
ACCIONA’s implementation of innovative technologies, such as the Maestro AI platform at Umm Al Houl, has been instrumental in achieving these certifications. This artificial intelligence system monitors and optimizes plant operations, leading to significant energy savings and operational efficiencies.
The company’s focus on energy-efficient desalination is particularly relevant in the Middle East, where water scarcity and high energy consumption are pressing concerns. According to the International Energy Agency, the demand for desalinated water in the region is expected to increase significantly due to population growth and climate change impacts.
Qatar’s National Vision 2030 stresses the importance of environmental development and the efficient use of resources, aligning with ACCIONA’s operational goals. By obtaining ISO 50001 certification, ACCIONA not only enhances its competitive edge in the global water sector but also contributes to Qatar’s national sustainability objectives.
In addition to energy efficiency, ACCIONA has prioritized health and safety at its facilities. The Umm Al Houl plant recently surpassed one million working hours without any lost-time injuries.
ACCIONA has been carbon neutral since 2016, underscoring its long-standing commitment to sustainability. In 2024, the company reported sales of $21.8 billion (€19.19 billion), operating in more than 40 countries.
The company said it continues to expand its global presence in the renewable energy and water infrastructure sectors.
