Saudi Cement has signed an agreement with GE Power for the upgrade of three GE 6B gas turbines at its Hofuf plant to increase power output and efficiency.

This is the first GE Power's Advanced Gas Path (AGP) solution for a cement plant.

CEO of Saudi Cement, Mohammed AlGarni said, "Power supply is both a key input, as well as one of the major costs in our manufacturing process. Reliable, efficient electricity supply is thus essential for the continuous operations of our facility, as well as our market competitiveness. GE Power's Advanced Gas Path upgrade solution will allow us to improve efficiencies and become more self-sufficient in power production."

Joseph Anis, president & CEO of GE’s Power Services business in Africa, India and the Middle East said: "The upgrades of the gas turbines at Hofuf plant will not only help achieve efficiency and output improvements but also extend maintenance intervals and lower emissions, to the benefit of Saudi Cement and the wider community."

The upgrades are expected to complete by the 3Q18.