ABB to power new gas complex and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s grid

Substation to connect gas-fired cogeneration plant to the grid and supply reliable power to a new gas complex in the Eastern province

ABB will execute a project worth over $110 million for Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction Co., the South-Korean EPC (Engineering, Procurement and Construction). The order was booked in the third quarter of 2016 and includes the delivery of a high-voltage gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) substation that will integrate 1,500 megawatts (MW) of electricity generated by a new combined cycle power plant into the grid. It will boost transmission capacity and ensure reliable power supply to a new gas complex being built at the Fadhili oil field northwest of Jubail port, in the Eastern province of the country.

The Fadhili mega project will play a key role in Saudi Arabia's gas network. It will considerably increase the share of gas in the country's energy mix and reduce dependence on oil for power generation, thereby contributing to a lowering of greenhouse gas emissions.

ABB's new substation will integrate power from an adjacent cogeneration plant run by an independent power producer (IPP). It will supply around 400 megawatts (MW) of electricity to the gas plant to enable production and feed another 1,100 MW into the transmission grid.

"This substation, equipped with our advanced GIS technology, will ensure reliable power supply to the new gas complex and feed electricity into the grid, benefitting millions of consumers and strengthening the region's power infrastructure", said Claudio Facchin, president of ABB's Power Grids division. "This project adds to our extensive installed base in the region and supports our Next Level strategic thrust on delivering customer value through our latest technologies and supporting growing markets."

As part of the turnkey contract, ABB will be responsible for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of the transmission and distribution substation, as well as upgrade of the remote-end substation. ABB's state-of-the-art gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) will enhance operational reliability, efficiency and safety while minimizing substation footprint and reducing maintenance requirements. ABB will also deliver two autotransformers to step down the voltage for distribution, as well as advanced IEC 61850-compliant open automation, protection and telecommunication systems for local and remote control and monitoring of substation assets. The project is scheduled to be completed in 2019.