A new renewable energy project is under review in the United Arab Emirates as a Dutch climate technology company moves forward with plans to study the development of a large biomethanol production facility in the country.
Perpetual Next has appointed Kreston ME Consulting to carry out a detailed feasibility study for the proposed project. The assessment will determine whether the development is commercially, financially and technically viable.
Abu Dhabi has been identified as the preferred location for evaluation. However, company officials said the final site selection and development strategy will depend on the results of the study.
The proposed facility would produce about 220,000 metric tons of biomethanol each year. To achieve this output, the project would use approximately 320,000 metric tons of imported biocarbon derived from sustainable residues.
Biomethanol is gaining attention as industries seek lower-carbon fuel options. It can be used as an alternative to conventional methanol in sectors such as maritime transport and chemical manufacturing. Supporters say it can help reduce emissions while supporting long-term sustainability goals.
The feasibility study will examine a wide range of factors linked to the potential project. Analysts will review regional and international market demand and identify possible buyers for the fuel.
The assessment will also cover regulatory and permitting requirements. This includes reviewing local rules, environmental standards and other approvals that may be required before construction could begin.
Industrial sites across the UAE will be evaluated as part of the process. Experts will analyze available utilities, transportation links and access to key infrastructure.
Port facilities and feedstock import logistics will receive special attention due to the project’s dependence on imported biocarbon. Efficient transport and storage systems are expected to be important factors in determining overall project viability.
In addition to technical considerations, the study will examine financial and commercial aspects. Estimated capital investment requirements and operating costs will be reviewed in detail.
Consultants will also evaluate possible financing structures and investment models. Development risks and mitigation strategies will be analyzed to provide a clearer picture of the project’s potential.
Another major focus will be identifying the steps required to prepare the project for future investment decisions. This could help support discussions with financial institutions, strategic partners and industrial stakeholders.
The companies expect the study to be completed during the fourth quarter of 2026. The findings will help determine whether the project moves to the next stage of development.
Anthony Mayle, head of business development at Perpetual Next, said the UAE offers several advantages that make it an attractive location for consideration.
He pointed to the country’s strong shipping connections, advanced industrial infrastructure and growing focus on lower-carbon energy solutions. These factors, he said, align with the company’s international growth plans.
Mayle added that the study will provide valuable information for discussions with potential investors, lenders and industrial partners interested in participating in the project.
Kreston ME Consulting will lead the evaluation process using its regional expertise and market knowledge. The firm is based in Dubai and has experience in infrastructure, investment and strategic development projects.
The consultancy said it plans to work closely with industrial zones, infrastructure providers and market participants throughout the study. This engagement will help test project assumptions and ensure that findings reflect real market conditions.
Govind Menon, a growth strategist at Kreston ME Consulting, said the company is pleased to support the evaluation of the UAE as a possible location for a future biomethanol platform.
According to Menon, the study will combine local market knowledge with resources and expertise available through the wider Kreston Global network.
The proposed facility forms part of Perpetual Next’s broader strategy to establish an international network of renewable-carbon and biomethanol production assets.
The company is already developing large-scale projects in the Netherlands, Estonia and the United States. These developments are intended to support the growing demand for renewable fuels and sustainable industrial products.
Despite announcing the feasibility study, Perpetual Next has not disclosed an estimated project cost. The company also has not provided details regarding financing arrangements or a possible construction timeline.
For now, the focus remains on determining whether the UAE can support a commercially successful biomethanol production platform. The results of the study, expected later this year, will play a key role in shaping the future of the proposed renewable energy investment and its potential contribution to the region’s clean energy ambitions.
