Significant Progress Achieved on Rabigh Combined Cycle Power Plant
The Reinforcement of Rabigh Combined Cycle Power Plant, executed by the consortium of ELSEWEDY ELECTRIC Power Systems Projects and Siemens Energy Global GmbH & Co. KG, is steadily advancing under the supervision of the Saudi Electricity Company and consultant IDOM. The project has reached a notable 67.80% completion across its engineering, procurement, and construction phases, highlighting the collaborative efforts and technical expertise of all stakeholders involved.
Moreover, major engineering milestones have been reached, with most drawings linked to the Initial Commercial Operation Date now finalized. Procurement activities are well underway, and the majority of essential materials tied to the initial operations have already been delivered to the site. Civil works for the Simple Cycle phase have been completed, allowing the focus to shift to the Combined Cycle phase. Foundations for the steam turbine, generator, step-up transformers, and marine structures have been finalized, while steel structure installation for the Combined Pipe Rack is in progress.
Furthermore, electrical installations have also seen significant progress. Core components, including step-up transformers, unit transformers, low—and medium-voltage switchgear, circuit breakers, and associated control systems, are nearing completion. Battery systems for all three units are in place, and high-voltage cable works are advancing. Unit 41 is currently undergoing final testing in preparation for back-energization.
Commissioning activities are moving forward in tandem. Testing has been finalized for the step-up and auxiliary transformers, and commissioning continues across various electrical systems. On the mechanical front, critical equipment such as gas turbines, generators, air intake systems, and exhaust stacks has either been installed or is nearing final installation.
Also, supporting systems, including the closed cooling system, gas compressors, compressed air system, and fuel gas receiving station, have been installed. Piping for the Simple Cycle balance of the plant is progressing, and the tank area tied to key milestones is almost complete. The underground gas pipeline installation has also concluded and is now in the testing phase.
In the Steam Turbine Area, preparations for generator installation are underway. The Heat Recovery Steam Generator has successfully installed its primary and secondary casings, with welding and insulation completed. Lifting operations for the modules are currently ongoing.
Notably, this phase marks a pivotal step toward the project’s whole commercial operation. The consortium remains focused on ensuring timely delivery while upholding the highest standards of safety, quality, and operational excellence.
