GE Vernova has completed upgrades to four gas turbines at the 2GW Sabiya combined cycle power plant in Kuwait, along with its partner Alghanim.

The initiative was aimed at increasing power production, extending maintenance intervals, improving fuel efficiency, and reducing both costs and carbon dioxide emissions per megawatt generated.

The upgrades were completed as part of a multiyear service agreement between GE Vernova and Alghanim, an engineering, procurement and construction company.

GE Vernova has provided advanced gas path upgrades for the four 9F.03 turbines at Blocks 2 and 3 at the plant, to deliver a more fuel-efficient and reliable power output to the grid.

The upgrades will increase the power plant's block output by 6.3% and reduce the heat rate by 1.8%.

This translates to an increase in power production of 70MW, enabling more power to be generated with no additional fuel or increased carbon emissions.

The reduction in emissions is equivalent to removing 16,000 cars from Kuwait's roads.

The agreement also includes a seven-year supply and maintenance service for the units.

Located near Al Jahra and 52km from Kuwait City, Sabiya is the largest power station in the country.

It houses six of GE Vernova's 9F.03 gas turbines and three D11 steam turbines.

The Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, which owns the station, has focused on modernising the facility.

GE Vernova had previously upgraded two gas turbines in Block 1, increasing output by 6% and adding 35MW of power generation.

GE Vernova’s Gas Power business for Europe, Middle East and Africa president and CEO Joseph Anis stated: “With a proven track record of delivering long-term services contracts in the state of Kuwait, we are proud of this strategic collaboration with the Ministry of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy and Alghanim International that has enabled us to provide responsive, flexible and efficient power solutions to help meet the country’s growing energy needs.

“In line with the country’s strategic plans, the upgrades at the Sabiya Power Plant underscore our proven ability in delivering our advanced technology for reliable power supply across the nation.”

In January 2024, GE Vernova began operations at Iberdrola’s 766MW Topolobampo III gas-fired power plant in Mexico. 

The combined-cycle power plant is in Sinaloa state near the Topolobampo natural gas pipeline and features GE’s 7HA.01 gas turbines.