The Project
The additional energy consumption of Alba's latest aluminium smelter, Potline 6, resulted in the need for a new 1800 MW Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plant, in addition to an upgrade and expansion of their existing distribution network.
Our Approach
- The Challenge
ESB International was appointed as Owner's Engineer to Alba in 2015 for the Alba project's development phase and mobilised a team on-site in January 2017. The task involved managing all aspects of the two projects: the new power plant and the distribution expansion project. - The Solution
The team remained on-site for the project's duration, until May 2020, calling on expertise, when required, from the head office in Dublin, Ireland.
The Technology
The new ISO rated 1833 MW power plant used 3 GE 9HA.01 gas turbines, the first application of H class technology in a smelter. This high efficiency technology will help Alba to deliver low life cycle costs per megawatt, as well as to reduce the environmental footprint of its activities.
The Results
- Successfully met stringent timelines, delivering start-up power to the $2 billion Potline.
- First application of 9HA gas turbine technology in the Middle East.
- Applied 9HA gas turbine technology in a smelter application.
The ESB International team were extremely flexible and aligned with our project team, treating our project as their own. Their commitment to continue project obligations in Bahrain despite the global pandemic showed exemplary professionalism and ownership.
Amin Sultan, Chief Power Officer, ALBA
What we do
We offer a comprehensive range of solutions for both public and private clients, right through the life cycle of their projects and the energy value chain.
