A meeting chaired by the Minister of Electricity addresses challenges in managing the electrical control system.

Meeting Addresses Electrical System Challenges in Aden

A crucial meeting took place today in Aden, the temporary capital of Yemen, led by Minister of Electricity and Energy, Eng. Adnan Al-Kaf. The session focused on the significant challenges facing the management of the electrical control system and the electrical transmission network.

Key Participants and Discussion Points

The meeting included key figures such as Abdullah Al-Zubair, Deputy Executive Director of PetroMasila, and Nazem Al-Sagheer, General Manager of Al-Sagheer Company, which is responsible for the implementation of the PetroMasila energy discharge project and solar energy initiatives.

One of the primary topics was the new transmission line operating at 132 kilovolts, which stretches from Al-Hasswa to Al-Mansoura and Khormaksar in Aden. Currently, this line transmits energy produced by the PetroMasila and solar power stations through a single electrical circuit. This setup contradicts the project’s design, which intended for dual circuits to enhance reliability and reduce technical risks.

Technical Issues Identified

During the meeting, specialists clarified that the operation of the line on a single circuit resulted from damage to one of the switches during installation. This incident occurred due to a fall, and the executing company has yet to address the issue. Consequently, this situation increases the likelihood of disruptions in the electrical system if any emergency faults arise.

Action Plan for Electrical Discharge Project

Participants agreed on the need to complete the outstanding elements of the electrical discharge project. This includes finishing the second circuit between the PetroMasila station and Al-Hasswa, as well as the second circuit between PetroMasila and Al-Mansoura at 132 kilovolts. Additionally, they plan to finalize the circuit connecting the PetroMasila station to the old Al-Hasswa substation and complete the first circuit for the solar power station. Installing a voltage improvement device (SVC) at the solar power station will also contribute to stabilizing the electrical network. Furthermore, the meeting emphasized the importance of ensuring that the contractor receives the necessary financial entitlements to complete the remaining technical work.

Upcoming Technical Meetings

Minister Al-Kaf directed the organization of a technical meeting within the next two days. This meeting will involve the control management team, engineers from PetroMasila, and engineers from Al-Sagheer Company. The goal is to develop practical solutions that include clear technical points to address the existing issues.

Additionally, a follow-up technical meeting will occur between the control management and the executing company to establish a formal plan for restoring the solar power station, which has a capacity of 120 megawatts, to full operational status. This plan will ensure proper energy discharge through the network, adhering to a specific timeline for completing maintenance and addressing all technical observations related to the project.

Commitment to Stability and Reliability

Minister Al-Kaf reiterated that the objective of these efforts is to accurately identify the technical causes of the issues and implement practical solutions. He emphasized the importance of ongoing coordination and technical meetings between the control management and relevant companies to resolve remaining challenges associated with the PetroMasila station and its connected transmission lines.

He stressed the urgency of addressing existing technical problems and taking necessary actions in collaboration with relevant authorities to ensure the stability and continuity of electrical services, thereby enhancing the reliability of the transmission system in Aden.

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