Commissioning of generator control & protection panels at Garraf oil field, Iraq

Enabling energy independence with GE’s 94.5 MW on-site power solution for uninterrupted oil production

Client

Commissioned

2023

Location

Iraq

Scope

Commissioning Services

Industry

Captive Power Producers
The Garraf Iraq Project is an oil development initiative focused on the Garraf oil field in southern Iraq, specifically in the Dhi Qar Governorate. Managed by a consortium led by Petronas and JGC Corporation, in partnership with Iraq’s South Oil Company, the project aims to increase oil production from one of Iraq’s significant reserves. It involves building necessary infrastructure like pipelines and processing facilities and emphasizes local economic benefits, job creation, and environmental responsibility. The project is integral to Iraq’s broader strategy to enhance its oil production and support national economic growth.
Key Issues
Garraf management decided to install its power plant instead of relying on Iraq’s national grid to ensure a reliable and stable power supply, essential for uninterrupted oil production. The national grid’s frequent outages and instability posed risks to the project, while an independent power source offered greater operational control and energy security. Additionally, the power plant was tailored to meet the specific energy demands of the Garraf oil field, potentially reducing long-term costs and avoiding reliance on the often-overstretched national grid.
Solution

To address the challenge of ensuring a reliable power supply for the Garraf Project, General Electric (GE) played a critical role by providing advanced power generation solutions. GE supplied and installed 31.5MW (03Nos) gas turbines and other essential equipment for the on-site power plant, ensuring that the facility could generate sufficient and stable electricity to meet the project’s demands. GE’s involvement not only ensured a reliable energy source for the Garraf oil field but also introduced cutting-edge technology that enhanced the efficiency and performance of the power plant. This allowed the Garraf Project to maintain uninterrupted operations, reduce dependency on the national grid, and achieve greater operational independence and cost-effectiveness. In summary, GE’s role was pivotal in solving the power supply problem by delivering a customized and efficient power generation solution tailored to the specific needs of the Garraf oil field.

Conclusion

The Garraf Iraq Project’s decision to install its power plant, supported by GE’s provision of Three gas turbines, has been instrumental in ensuring a reliable and stable power supply crucial for the project’s operations. By securing an independent energy source, the project has minimized its reliance on the national grid, addressing issues of power instability and ensuring operational continuity. The commissioning of the generators was awarded to Epesol, highlighting the collaboration and expertise required to complete this critical infrastructure. Overall, the project’s strategic approach to energy management has reinforced its operational efficiency and contributed to its long-term success.