GCC And Iraq Finalise Electricity Interconnection Contract To Boost Regional Energy Security

The Deputy Governor of the Eastern Region, Prince Saud bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz, recently supervised the signing of a contract to link the Gulf electricity market with Iraq. This initiative aims to enhance energy cooperation between the regions. During the event, Prince Saud also inaugurated a project to upgrade the control center systems of the GCC Interconnection Authority (GCCIA).

Prince Saud launched updates to improve the electricity interconnection network's control systems. These updates aim to boost system efficiency and flexibility against potential challenges. By adopting advanced technologies, they ensure protection against cyber threats, maintaining continuous and safe operations. This contributes to grid stability and enhances operational capabilities while aligning with global clean energy transitions.

Eng. Ahmed Al-Ebrahim, CEO of GCCIA, highlighted that since its inception in 2009, the GCC Electrical Interconnection project has been crucial for regional infrastructure. It has received special attention from leaders in Saudi Arabia and other GCC countries. The interconnected network spans over 1,000 km from Kuwait to Oman, providing immediate support during emergencies without any interruptions in electricity flow.

The project has addressed more than 2,800 cases requiring support since operations began, including over 50 involving renewable energy production. Al-Ebrahim noted that this initiative saved approximately $3.6 billion in investment and operating costs since its establishment, which amounted to about $1.5 billion.

The contract with Iraq is expected to enhance energy security by enabling GCC countries to supply Iraq with around 3.94 terawatt-hours annually by 2025 at lower costs than local production. This will help Iraq reduce public spending significantly.

Eng. Saleh Al-Omari, CEO of Gulf Laboratory, mentioned that under the Saudi Ministry of Energy's supervision, they have built one of the world's largest and most advanced energy laboratories in Dammam’s third Industrial City with an investment exceeding SAR1.1 billion.

Advanced Energy Laboratory

The laboratory offers testing, consulting, inspection, research and development services at an international level. It has trained over 11,000 individuals across more than 130 international professional certifications and established partnerships with major manufacturers and universities globally.

The laboratory also qualifies hundreds of local and foreign products for import and export in Saudi markets. This initiative supports technological advancement and ensures high standards in product quality within the Kingdom.

This project is set to provide a sustainable power supply while strengthening Iraq's electricity grid stability. It reduces reliance on costly traditional energy sources by efficiently utilizing available resources.

With inputs from SPA