Hyundai Engineering & Construction Co. (Hyundai E&C) has achieved a significant milestone by securing a major project in Saudi Arabia valued at 1 trillion won. The company signed a contract with the Saudi Electricity Co. for the “Saudi Riyadh-Kudmi 500kV High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Transmission Line” project, worth $725 million. This marks Hyundai E&C’s largest transmission project in the Saudi power grid sector.
The project encompasses a 1,089km HVDC transmission line connecting Riyadh’s PP14 power plant to the Kudmi area. Hyundai E&C will build the first 369km section near Kudmi, with an expected completion date of January 2027. As a turnkey project, Hyundai E&C will manage design, procurement, and construction.
HVDC technology transforms AC power into high-voltage DC for efficient, long-distance transmission, minimizing energy loss. This project will introduce Saudi Arabia’s first HVDC double bi-pole line, capable of 4,000MW power.
The contract follows the “Energy Localization Forum” hosted by the Saudi Ministry of Energy, which emphasizes local partnerships and aligns with Vision 2030. This vision aims to diversify the Saudi economy by reducing oil dependence and enhancing sectors like health, education, and infrastructure.
A Hyundai E&C representative highlighted the company’s recognition for its advanced technology in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing their commitment to executing the HVDC project successfully. This initiative is seen as a vital component of the renewable energy grid industry.
Hyundai E&C has been at the forefront of the HVDC era in Saudi Arabia since 2021, with projects like the Medina-Tabuk-Aqaba 500kV line and last year’s Neom-Yanbu 525kV project. Securing the Riyadh-Kudmi project strengthens their role in modernizing the region’s power grid and integrating renewable energy, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives.
