ABB has announced it will supply transformers for two new combined-cycle power plants in Saudi Arabia to boost transmission capacity around the capital Riyadh and surrounding areas of the Central Region.

The announcement follows a deal worth $78 million the company secured with Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), the kingdom’s national power transmission and distribution operator.

ABB will deliver generator step-up (GSU) transformers, power transformers and station service transformers for SEC’s combined-cycle power plants, the announcement stated.

“These transformers will  enable more electricity to reach consumers and meet growing industrial and household demand in the region,” said Bernhard Jucker, head of ABB’s power products division. “We are pleased to continue supporting Saudi Arabia in the development of its power infrastructure.”

Saudi Arabia faces rising demand for electricity, driven by an increase in population and industrial growth led by petrochemicals. In response, the country plans to boost power-generation capacity by more than 50 per cent from less than 60 gigawatts (GW) to approximately 91 GW by 2020. In the longer term, Saudi Arabia has the ambition to more than double the existing capacity.

Transformers are integral components of an electrical grid, and essential for the efficient and safe conversion of electricity between different voltage systems. ABB’s transformer portfolio includes power transformers rated up to 1,200 kV, dry- and liquid-distribution transformers, traction and special application transformers as well as related services and components.