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GE to provide speed drives for SEC thermal power plants

The variable speed drives designed by GE Power Conversion are designed to handle rapid changes in load, speed and torque commands at Saudi Arabias steam power plants. (Image source: TenSafeFrogs/Flickr)

GE has been awarded a contract worth US$23mn by Hyundai Heavy Industries to supply 24 18MW MV7000 variable speed drives to the Saudi Electricity Company?s (SEC) Jeddah South and Shuqaiq steam power plants

Each plant consists of four 660MW power blocks and are among the largest steam power plants globally, according to the company.

The MV7000 range will drive the boiler feed pumps, controlling motor speed, torque and power.

GE Power Conversion?s speed drives aim to increase efficiency, the company said.

The product range responds rapidly to changes in load, speed and torque commands, and requires limited and simple maintenance, it added.

This technology has reportedly eradicated complex mechanical components by providing a soft start that reduces voltage dips and electrical shocks.

Alexander Kajo, CEO of GE Power Conversion Middle East, North Africa and Turkey, said, ?Saudi Electricity Company is one of GE?s long-term partners, with our power generation technology installed in more than 40 sites of the region?s leading utility. Our contract to support the prestigious Jeddah South and Shuqaiq Steam power plants is significant for us as it highlights our competencies to provide highly efficient and flexible technologies for large power plants.?