The number of new subscribers to the services of the Saudi Electricity Company would reach more than 1,4 million in 2013, according to Abdul-salam Al-Yamani, Vice President for Public Affairs at the company. He added that the cost of getting these new subscribers powered up is estimated at SR18.272 billion. The total number of subscribers is expected to reach 6,8 millions by the end of that year. Yamani said that under the development plan for the Kingdom's urban areas, which spans between 2009 and 2013, electricity services will be delivered to 247 villages during 2008, with the cost of SR252 million, as the total number of populated areas provided with the service under the plan is projected to reach 920 costing SR1.196 billion. He added that during 2008, the company's power generation capacity will be increased by 2,669 megawatts (Mw), as it will be increased by 10,868 Mw for the plan's duration. The total cost of power generation projects reached SR11.896 billion so far, as the total cost projected during the plan would be SR42.331 billion. Yamani said 2,686 kilometers of power lines would be installed, along with 37 transmission stations. There would be 11,726 kilometers of power lines by the end of 2013. Electricity transmission projects suggested in 2008 are to cost SR10.256 billion, as they will cost SR38.034 billion during the plan. Regarding electricity distribution lines, Al-Yamani said 118,000 kilometers of lines will be added during 2008. The total amount of capital investment in electricity projects in 2008 will reach SR27.642 billion that would be spent execute 323 projects. – Okaz. __
