ABB wins $93 million power orders in Saudi Arabia

ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, has won orders worth $93 million to build six substations for Saudi Electricity Company, Saudi Arabia’s national power transmission and distribution operator. The orders were booked in the fourth quarter of 2010.

ABB will design, supply, install and commission the 110/13.8 kilovolt (kV) substations, which are scheduled for completion in 2012. ABB will also deliver other major equipment including gas-insulated switchgear, medium-voltage products, transformers as well as network protection and low-voltage auxiliary systems. Each of the substations will be equipped with the latest IEC 61850 compliant  automation, control and protection solutions.

IEC 61850 is an international communications standard that ensures interoperability and open communications between substation devices and other grid installations.

“These substations will enhance power capacity and help meet growing demand for electricity in the region,” said Peter Leupp, head of ABB’s Power Systems division. “They will also enhance the reliability and efficiency of the grid.”

Substations are key installations in the power grid. They transform voltage levels and facilitate the efficient transmission and distribution of electricity. They include equipment that protects and controls the flow of electrical power. ABB is the world’s leading supplier of air- and gas-insulated substations, with more than 10,000 installations worldwide covering a range of voltage levels up to 1,100 kV.