ABB win UAE project

ABB has won an order worth around $55 million from Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA) in United Arab Emirates (UAE) to build a substation that will integrate power from the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum solar park.

The gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) substation will enhance transmission capacity, boost power supplies and strengthen the reliability of the grid. The 100MW Phase II of the solar power plant in Seih Al Dahal, about 50km south of Dubai, is scheduled to commence generation in 2017.

The solar park is one of the biggest renewable energy projects in the Middle East and North Africa. It is expected to cover an area of more than 40 square kilometers and produce 1GW of clean energy when completed in 2030. It will support the Dubai Integrated Energy Strategy 2030, adopted by the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy to diversify the energy mix, under which natural gas is expected to contribute 71% of electricity, followed by nuclear (12%), clean coal (12%) and solar (5%).

“The substation will help increase transmission capacity and deliver clean solar power to meet growing demand for electricity in the region,” said Claudio Facchin, head of ABB’s Power Systems division. “We are pleased to help the UAE strengthen its power network and increase the use of renewable energy.”

As part of the turnkey contract, ABB is responsible for the design, installation, commissioning and start-up of the plant. Key products to be supplied include eight bays of 400kV and 10 bays of 132kV GIS, two 132/400kV power transformers rated at 570MVA, as well as the protection system, automation and control system, surveillance and communication. The substation will also be IEC 61850 enabled to support open communications automation and protection.

“DEWA works to enhance the efficiency of its network and establishes pivotal projects to achieve the highest standards of efficiency and reliability,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, DEWA’s Managing Director and CEO. “This forms the basis of our cooperation with ABB, which has a record of innovation in renewable energy technologies, sustainable transport and energy efficiency. DEWA supports the vision of Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to enhance Dubai’s role as a global hub for trade, finance, tourism and green economy.”