Mitsubishi Power bags historic order for hydrogen-ready gas turbine in Saudi Arabia

Mitsubishi Power, a leading brand under Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), has been awarded a significant contract by Samsung C&T Corporation Saudi Arabia. The deal involves supplying its cutting-edge M501JAC combined-cycle gas turbine for a new cogeneration plant project in Saudi Arabia. This project, developed by a consortium led by Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) and JERA Co., Inc., will generate both electricity and steam for a major petrochemical complex in Jubail.

The upcoming cogeneration facility, boasting a substantial capacity of 475 megawatts (MW), will be established by a special purpose entity where TAQA holds a 51% stake and JERA owns 49%. This plant is designed to support the SATORP Strategic Expansion, an ambitious project developed by Saudi Aramco and TotalEnergies. The expansion will feature one of the largest mixed-load steam crackers in the Gulf region, significantly boosting regional industrial capabilities.

A pivotal aspect of this project is that Mitsubishi Power’s M501JAC gas turbine will be the first of its kind assembled locally in Saudi Arabia. This assembly will take place at Mitsubishi Power’s newly established facility in Dammam, spanning 17,200 square meters. This move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to enhance local content and technological capabilities. The facility will not only assemble gas turbines but will also provide essential services for key components, employing a predominantly Saudi workforce. This initiative reflects Mitsubishi Power’s commitment to nurturing local talent through its Saudi National program, which focuses on offering advanced career pathways and technical training.

The M501JAC gas turbine is renowned for its high efficiency, achieving over 64%, and its capacity to blend hydrogen with natural gas. This advanced feature will offer the new cogeneration plant improved operational flexibility, faster startup times, and the ability to adjust load quickly. These capabilities are crucial for balancing electricity supply and demand, ensuring a reliable low-carbon power supply, and supporting Saudi Arabia’s industrial growth and environmental targets.

Moreover, Mitsubishi Power has secured a long-term service agreement with the consortium led by TAQA and JERA. This contract includes comprehensive parts, repairs, and maintenance services, supported by Mitsubishi Power’s service center in Saudi Arabia. The close proximity of this center to the plant site will facilitate prompt support and maintenance, ensuring the continued reliability and efficiency of the equipment.

Dr. Frank Possmeier, Chief Business Development Officer at TAQA’s Generation division, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership. “TAQA and its partners are delighted to collaborate with Mitsubishi Power to leverage the efficiencies of its J-class gas turbine technology. This collaboration will drive operational excellence and sustainability in our new plant, which is set to provide highly efficient power and steam for the SATORP Strategic Expansion petrochemical complex.”

Izumi Kai, Managing Executive Officer and Head of the Platform Business Division at JERA, also highlighted the significance of the project. “JERA is thrilled to join forces with Mitsubishi Power for the SATORP Strategic Expansion. The advanced J-class gas turbine technology will optimize energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact, setting new standards in operational performance and sustainability.”

Khalid Salem, President of Middle East & North Africa at Mitsubishi Power, noted the strategic importance of this project. “We are honored to partner with TAQA and JERA on this landmark project, which aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its ambitions for economic growth and decarbonization. This project marks a new chapter in our long-standing relationship with the Kingdom, showcasing Mitsubishi Power’s commitment to delivering advanced, reliable, and efficient power generation solutions.”

Mitsubishi Power’s engagement in Saudi Arabia spans over five decades, with a rich history of collaboration with major energy stakeholders such as the Ministry of Energy, Saudi Aramco, the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), and the Saline Water Conversion Corporation (SWCC). The company’s journey in Saudi Arabia began with the supply of boilers to Aramco in Abqaiq during the 1960s and has since expanded to include numerous power projects with key utilities and industrial entities across the Kingdom.