The Diriyah Company has opened two major electricity substations operated by the Saudi Electricity Company (SEC), the 1707 MVA-capacity Bulk Substation and the 200 MVA-capacity Primary Substation.
The electricity substations will accelerate the growth of major assets under development in Diriyah and Wadi Safar.
According to Diriyah Company, the two electricity substations are the first of the main urban infrastructure projects to feature a design inspired by Najdi architecture. The 1707 MVA 380/132/13.8 kV Bulk Substation, with a contract value of SAR 605 million ($161 million), will support the development of assets in the first phase of Diriyah’s development to be implemented by the SEC through Saudi Services for Electro Mechanic Works (SSEM).
It will facilitate a diverse range of cultural, educational, retail, office, residential, and hotel developments, including areas such as Diriyah Square, the Qurain Cultural District, and the Northern District.
Additionally, to enable the energization of the substation, the SEC will implement a major cabling contract valued at SAR 316 million ($84 million) through the Civil and Electrical Projects Contracting Company (CEPCO).
The 200 MVA 132/33 kV Primary Substation, with a contract of SAR 77 million ($20.5 million), will be implemented by the SEC through MAETEL contracting company, which will serve as one of the primary power sources for Wadi Safar, the prestigious development blending natural beauty with world-class amenities.
“This destination will feature hospitality assets and sports and recreation venues, including the Royal Diriyah Equestrian & Polo Club and the Greg Norman-designed Wadi Safar Golf Course,” the release added.
To facilitate the energization of the substation, the SEC will implement a significant cabling contract worth SAR 168 million ($45 million) through the DELTA contracting company.
Both substations are designed to reflect Diriyah’s traditional Najdi architectural style, blending with the surrounding development to preserve Diriyah’s cultural identity. By integrating Saudi Arabia’s rich historical heritage with state-of-the-art infrastructure, these substations stand as a testament to the region’s dedication to honoring its past while building a sustainable future.
“Diriyah, one of Saudi Arabia’s five giga-projects backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is building residences for 100,000 people and creating 178,000 job opportunities. By 2030, it is projected to accommodate 50 million visits a year, contributing $18.6 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP,” the company said in a statement.
