RIYADH – The first two Siemens SGT-6 2000E gas turbine units for the Hail-2 Extension-III power plant have been commissioned ahead of schedule in Hail region, northwest Saudi Arabia. Siemens Energy Fossil Power Generation, together with Alfanar, a local EPC, has jointly commissioned the gas turbine units for Saudi Electricity Company (SEC). Siemens has provided four SGT-6 2000E gas turbines and four generators together with auxiliary equipment, providing a total output capacity of 280 MW. The commissioning was achieved in accordance to high standards of safety and quality. This follows the successful commissioning of the first two gas turbine units at Hail-2 Extension-II power plant in a record time of 12 months last year. Arja Talakar, CEO of Siemens Saudi Arabia, said "the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has announced major investments in the development of local infrastructure and we are proud to contribute to this rapid development and to the realization of the Kingdom's ambitious industrialization plans." Saudi Arabia is one of the most attractive power generation markets worldwide. Saudi Arabia's population is estimated to increase from 28 million to 40 million during this decade. To meet the significant rise in power demand, the installed capacity will have to double. The Hail-2 power plant will contribute significantly to the development of the infrastructure of Hail region and also address the Kingdom's growing demand for sustainable power generation. – SG
