Prior to COP28, the Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA), Sharjah Hamriyah Independent Power Company (SHIPCO), and GE Vernova (NYSE: GE) jointly declared the commencement of commercial operations for all three blocks at the Hamriyah Independent Power Plant (IPP). This combined cycle facility stands as the most efficient gas power plant presently in operation within the Middle East and Africa (MEA), playing a significant role in reducing the carbon footprint of power generation in Sharjah. With a notably higher level of efficiency compared to previous power generation assets in the emirate, the three GE Vernova 9HA.01 turbines are anticipated to enable SEWA to generate an additional 1.8 gigawatts (GW) of power, while cutting down carbon dioxide emissions by up to 4 million tons annually, in comparison to generating the same electricity amount using legacy technology. This emission reduction is equivalent to removing approximately one million cars from the roads of the UAE.
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The Gas Power division of GE Vernova took charge of the complete engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services for the project. They successfully supplied and installed three 9HA.01 gas turbines, which operate in conjunction with three H84 generators, as well as three STF-D650 steam turbines paired with three A74 generators. Additionally, they provided three heat recovery steam generators (HRSGs) for the facility. GE Vernova intends to continue supporting the power generation assets at the site for approximately 25 years by offering parts, repair, and maintenance services.
Integral part
Saeed Sultan Al Suwaidi, chairman of the Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA) said, “At SEWA, we are committed to meeting Sharjah’s growing energy needs with more reliable, affordable, and sustainable power, and to supporting the UAE’s plan towards transitioning to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The Hamriyah IPP is an integral part of SEWA’s 2030 Roadmap and our strategy to strengthen Sharjah’s grid with lower carbon power. We are delighted to have collaborated with industry-leading organizations such as the Sharjah Hamriyah Independent Power Company and GE Vernova on this project, which is expected to help meet up to 40 percent of Sharjah’s electricity needs.
Lowering the carbon intensity of electricity
Omar Almulla, chairman of SHIPCO said, “The significant milestone of commercial operations of all three blocks at the Hamriyah IPP was the result of over 11 million hours of work done by more than 1,500 people from over 20 countries from across SEWA, the Sharjah Hamriyah Independent Power Company, GE Vernova, and other stakeholders. Together, we are committed to adding power capacity in the UAE, while lowering the carbon intensity of electricity generated to help address the global climate challenge and keep powering growth.”
100 percent hydrogen utilization
The H-class gas turbine technology developed by GE Vernova has achieved two world records for combined cycle efficiency. With over 140 units ordered thus far, this technology has accumulated an impressive 1.8 million operating hours. Notably, it offers exceptional flexibility by swiftly adjusting power output to support grid stability as variable renewable energy sources are integrated. Additionally, the technology has the capability to utilize a blend of up to 50 percent hydrogen with natural gas, with a roadmap for future advancements aiming to achieve up to 100 percent hydrogen utilization. In line with this, there are plans to implement a combined cycle configuration with a post-combustion capture system. This ambitious undertaking aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 90 percent, showcasing GE Vernova’s commitment to addressing environmental concerns.
Innovative financing structure
“The Hamriyah IPP was a special project in many regards. From the innovative financing structure to the global workforce that executed it, including during the toughest period of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the record-setting GE Vernova H-class technology powering it – the successful commercial operation of all three blocks at the plant is testament to the strength of SEWA’s vision and the dedicated efforts of all involved,” said Joseph Anis, president & CEO Europe, Middle East & Africa at GE Vernova’s Gas Power business.
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