Dammam, October 9, 2024 - In a significant advancement for regional energy cooperation, Prince Saud bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, the Deputy Governor of the Eastern Region, presided over the signing of a contract aimed at connecting the Gulf electricity market with Iraq. This initiative, announced during a formal event in Dammam, is a critical step in enhancing the stability and efficiency of electricity supply across the region.
The ceremony also marked the inauguration of a project to upgrade the control center systems of the Gulf Cooperation Council Interconnection Authority (GCCIA), an essential organization that facilitates electricity exchange among Gulf countries. Notable attendees included Eng. Ahmed Al-Ebrahim, CEO of the GCCIA, and Eng. Saleh Al-Omari, CEO of the Gulf Laboratory.
Prince Saud emphasized the importance of modernizing the control center systems, which are designed to improve the operational efficiency and flexibility of electricity systems. By implementing advanced technologies, the project aims to bolster defenses against cyber threats, ensuring continuous and secure electricity operations. This upgrade is not only expected to enhance the stability of the electricity grid but also to align with the global shift towards clean energy solutions.
The successful execution of this project is projected to significantly bolster Iraq's electricity grid stability, enabling a sustainable power supply while reducing reliance on costly traditional energy sources. Moreover, it will facilitate more efficient utilization of available resources.
In his address, Al-Ebrahim highlighted that the GCC Electrical Interconnection project, which was initiated in 2009, stands as one of the most vital infrastructure linkage initiatives endorsed by the leaders of the Kingdom and GCC nations. He noted that since the project's inception, there have been no partial or total interruptions in electricity flow within the GCC, thanks to the immediate support provided during emergencies through the interconnected network, which spans over 1,000 kilometers from Kuwait to Oman.
The authority has successfully managed over 2,800 cases requiring assistance since operations began, with more than 50 instances involving renewable energy production. Al-Ebrahim pointed out that the project has resulted in approximately $3.6 billion in savings, with total investment and operating costs amounting to around $1.5 billion.
The recent contract with Iraq is expected to enhance energy security further, allowing GCC countries to supply Iraq with approximately 3.94 terawatt-hours of electricity annually by 2025. This electricity will be offered at prices lower than those of local production, thus helping Iraq reduce public expenditure.
Eng. Al-Omari spoke about the Gulf Laboratory, which has developed one of the largest and most advanced energy laboratories globally in Dammam’s Third Industrial City, under the direct supervision of the Saudi Ministry of Energy. The laboratory, with an investment exceeding SAR 1.1 billion, specializes in testing, consulting, inspection, research and development, and providing international-level training services across various technical disciplines. To date, it has trained more than 11,000 individuals and facilitated over 130 international professional certifications, establishing partnerships with leading manufacturers, service providers, universities, and research institutes worldwide. Additionally, the laboratory has successfully qualified numerous local and foreign products for import and export within the Kingdom's markets.
