GE and XD Electric boost high voltage capabilities

With the population in the Middle East expected to grow by 31 percent by 2025, and gross domestic product (GDP) set to grow at 4.3 percent from 2009-2020, there is greater need to build out reliable, safe and efficient electrical infrastructure. Compared to the United States, where electricity consumption per capita is set to grow 0.8 percent annually through 2035, the increase in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries is set to be at over 2.5 percent.
Building on its commitment to partner in initiatives that enhance the social and economic welfare of the Middle East and to promote energy sector efficiencies, GE and XD Electric Group have underscored the formation of a new partnership that combines GE's grid automation capabilities with XD Electric's comprehensive portfolio of primary high-voltage (HV) equipment.
Originally announced in May 2012, the partnership expands GE's capabilities as a leading provider of transmission and distribution (T&D) solutions and creates a new global competitor to provide utilities and energy-intensive industries with HV solutions.
"With over 80 years of presence in the Middle East, we're currently focused on grid expansion projects and greenfield network interconnections as we continue to create a modern power grid that is stable, resilient and energy efficient. This is in line with the emphasis that regional governments place on boosting the energy sector infrastructure, with a particular focus on sustainability, to meet growing demand from an increasing population and greater urbanization," said Jalal Qutob, regional product leader, high voltage solutions, GE Digital Energy.
"Adding high-voltage capabilities will help our utility customers to transmit power with minimal losses over long distances and rough terrains — from the generation point to the consumers in large cities. We'll also continue to eliminate power islands, creating energy reserves and allowing us to more efficiently use a greater supply of energy," he added.