In another move towards increasing their important work and investment in Iraq, Siemens has announced it will add 650 megawatts (MW) to Shatt Al Basra Gas Power Plant, which currently has a power generation capacity of 1,250 MW. The power plant, which is one of Iraq’s largest gas-fired plants, will be converted to a combined cycle, enabling electricity supply to one million Iraqis and increasing plant efficiency by more than 50 percent.

Siemens will supply five of its highly-efficient steam turbines, ensuring the additional power supply comes at no extra fuel requirement. Siemens was awarded the contract by China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC). The developer of the project is KAR Electrical Power Production Trading FZE (KEPPT). Earlier this year, Siemens was contracted to supply two of its robust SST-5000 steam turbines to a similar project in Rumaila in Iraq, making it the first large-scale open cycle conversion project in the country. The upgrade works for both the Rumaila and the Shatt Al Basra power plants are scheduled for completion by 2020.

“Iraq is rebuilding its power infrastructure and we are eager to support the country’s future aspirations. A reliable and efficient power supply is the backbone of a prosperous economy and today’s announcement underscores an important step towards realizing Iraq’s aspirations towards building a robust power system and a sustainable economy for its people,” said Jean-Claude Nasr, Senior Executive Vice President, Power Generation at Siemens in the Middle East.

From energy supply and industry to financing and training, Siemens outlined its roadmap and commitment to supporting the development of Iraq in February at the Iraq reconstruction conference held in Kuwait. The roadmap identified the country’s short, mid and long-term development needs. It focused on key areas including energy management, resource efficiency, education, anti-corruption and financing. It detailed how Siemens can support the country’s transformation. Siemens envisions 40 million Iraqis living in vibrant cities, powered by reliable and efficient energy; a strong industrial sector and sustainable economic development, led by world-class, home-grown talent.

(Source: Siemens)

Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a global technology powerhouse that has stood for engineering excellence, innovation, quality, reliability and internationality for 170 years. The company is active around the globe, focusing on the areas of electrification, automation and digitalization. For more information on Siemens visit: http://www.middleeast.siemens.com