Hitachi Energy, in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), will supply a 380 kV gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) to National Grid Saudi Arabia Company, the nation’s primary transmission operator.
Saudi Arabia’s economic expansion has driven a sharp increase in electricity demand, making it one of the fastest-growing energy consumers in the Middle East and ranking as the 11th largest globally, according to industry sources. To address this, the Ministry of Energy has launched broad reforms to boost the country’s power generation, transmission, and distribution capacity. The Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) has also introduced the Build and Employ National Abilities (BENA) program to strengthen local manufacturing in the energy sector.
The installation of the Al Buhairah power link in Tabouk aims to enhance grid resilience and connectivity in northern Saudi Arabia, supporting stable and reliable electricity transmission and underpinning long-term economic growth.
Hitachi Energy’s advanced 380 kV GIS will be supplied fully assembled and factory tested from its Dammam facility. This technology is valued for its compact design, reliability, and ability to operate in challenging environments. The pre-assembled GIS streamlines installation and shortens on-site work, enabling faster commissioning and immediate operation, which helps meet rising electricity needs more efficiently.
This project marks the first deployment of a 380 kV GIS from Hitachi Energy’s Dammam factory, with the substation expected to be operational in 2024. The initiative will increase transmission capacity for the Saudi Electricity Company, ensuring a more reliable power supply for both domestic and industrial consumers.
By delivering this locally produced GIS, Hitachi Energy is contributing to ‘Saudi Vision 2030’, which emphasizes strengthening domestic industry and supporting national localization efforts.
