Contract Announcement and Scope
An EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contract worth approximately USD 1.3 billion has been awarded for the Ta’ziz low-carbon ammonia plant project in Abu Dhabi. The prestigious contract was secured by Tecnimont S.p.A, a subsidiary of Maire SpA, and was announced during the Make It in the Emirates forum. The scope of work for Tecnimont S.p.A includes complete engineering services, equipment and material supply, and construction activities.
Fertiglobe: Partner in Development
Fertiglobe, a leading nitrogen fertilizer and ammonia producer in the MENA region, awarded the contract. Fertiglobe is a key partner in the Ta’ziz low-carbon ammonia plant project, having joined through a partnership agreement with TA’ZIZ, a joint venture between ADNOC and ADQ. This collaboration aims to leverage the expertise of ADNOC in Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS), Fertiglobe’s capabilities in ammonia production, and the roles of Mitsui & Co., Ltd. and GS Energy Corporation in industrial decarbonization.
Project Timeline and Expectations
The implementation of the Ta’ziz low-carbon ammonia plant project is scheduled to commence in the third quarter of 2024, with mechanical completion anticipated in 2026. Operations are expected to begin in 2027. The facility, with an initial capacity of 1 million tons per annum (mtpa) of low-carbon ammonia production, will prioritize the domestic production of six chemicals, paving the way for the manufacturing of new end-products in the UAE.
Economic and Employment Impact
This phase of the project is poised to make a substantial contribution to the country’s GDP and is projected to create thousands of jobs over the next two decades. Additionally, plans for future expansion are already in motion, aiming to double the plant’s production capacity and enhance decarbonization efforts through clean power and carbon capture technologies.
Sustainability Focus
A preliminary life cycle assessment study indicates that the initial phase of the project will result in a 50% reduction in carbon intensity compared to conventional ammonia production methods. Subsequent phases will further reduce carbon emissions through the capture and sequestration of carbon dioxide.
In summary, the Ta’ziz low-carbon ammonia plant project represents a significant milestone in Abu Dhabi’s sustainable development journey, with Tecnimont S.p.A leading the way in its construction and implementation.