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25 October 2006 -- Tractebel Engineering has been selected to perform the technical and economic feasibility study for the interconnection of the power grids of Saudi Arabia and Egypt. The principals are the grid operators Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) and Egyptian Electricity Holding Company (EEHC).
The economic evaluation is performed by determining the energy exchanges between the two countries and calculating the reliability gains achieved by improving the combined operation of the two electricity grids when interconnected.
The technical feasibility assessment is based on the analysis of the conditions that will secure the functional stability of the grids under both normal and critical conditions.
The choice of the most appropriate technology is an important aspect of this study, especially that the two grids are operated at different frequencies (50Hz and 60Hz), calling for the interconnection to be either by an HVDC (High Voltage Direct Current) link or equipped with so-called back-to-back converter stations.
According to Tractebel, the electrical interconnection between the two countries will secure them a greater stability and security in their power distribution by limiting the risks of blackouts. It will also make for optimized use of their present and future power generating facilities.
The study is to start in November 2006 and is scheduled for completion in 12 months.
Tractebel Engineering was already familiar with the two power systems as a result of its previous interconnection studies in the region. Tractebel Engineering studied the interconnection of the power systems of five North African countries -- from Egypt to Morocco -- extending over more than 4,000 km and is currently completing the studies for the interconnection between Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
In interconnection studies, Tractebel Engineering applies in-house developed software (PRELE, SCANNER) and therefore offers an innovative and efficient approach that takes into account the various constraints of the power systems.
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