GE Energy announced on Sunday that the Kuwait Ministry of Electricity and Water has signed a turnkey contract with GE and Hyundai Heavy Industries totaling $2.65 billion for a new, 2,000-megawatt (MW) power plant in Sabiya. The government of Kuwait-owned plant will add much needed power to the grid, allowing Kuwait to boost electricity production to help meet growing demand. When completed, the plant will raise Kuwait's power capacity from current levels of around 11,000 megawatts. Kuwait's robust business and residential growth has strained the country's power generation capability, resulting in power outages during the hot summer months. “This will be the largest combined cycle power plant in Kuwait and it is an important step in our plans to boost power capacity to meet continuing demand, which is projected to grow at about 8 percent a year,” said His Excellency Dr. Bader Shabeeb Al Shriaan, Kuwait's Minister of Electricity and Water. “A reliable supply of electricity is critical to avoid future power shortages and to support the continued economic and social development of Kuwait. GE's technological capability and strong local service support will help meet the need for responsible, efficient energy in Kuwait.” Under its share of the contract, totaling $1.3 billion, GE will supply equipment and long-term services. On the equipment side, GE will supply three combined-cycle power blocks, including six Frame 9FA gas turbines, which will be equipped with the latest emission reducing technology.
