Siemens Energy is providing the complete electrification package, including a suite of comprehensive technologies, for Line 3 of Cairo’s metro expansion, a project that will ultimately link the heavily populated city with Cairo International Airport.
Working with strong partners as the National Authority of Tunnels (NAT), COLAS RAIL, Orascom Constructions and Arab Contractors, Siemens Energy has been involved with providing power to Line 3 since its inception. The line’s Phase 4-B expansion, expected to be completed by end of June this year, will include the company’s state-of-the-art Gas Insulated Switchgear, which can run maintenance-free for 25 years. Siemens’ substations will provide power to the new stations along the expanded route.
The new metro line will use Siemens’s SIMATIC substation operating system and digital technology to enhance controllability and reliability, while optimizing operating costs. In addition, the scope of supply comprises automation, protection and telecommunication equipment to connect the control center of the Line 3 with Cairo’s regional control center.
The electrification package also includes the installation of the company’s digital power transformers (Siemens Sensformer). With the new Siemens Sensformer, operators will have access to a cloud-based platform application that visualizes the collected data and enables a comprehensive overview of all the power assets in real time.
“To keep a metro system running on time and efficiently, the system requires a reliable supply of energy. That’s why we have combined advanced power transmission and digitalization solutions for the electrification of Cairo’s new metro line. Through these solutions, we will improve availability and reliability of power systems, and make sure they achieve greater efficiency, while ensuring environmental protection,” said Mahmoud Hanafy, Senior Vice President, Siemens Energy Transmission Solutions, Middle East. “The project is also a prime example of Siemens Energy’s focus on powering the transportation sector, and the new line is an important project that will enhance the lives of millions of Egyptians and help improve mobility in the capital city.”
Salim HELLEL, Egypt and Middle East, Managing Director at COLAS RAIL also said that “Safe and reliable transportation systems are essential components for the happiness and productivity of all cities. We believe this latest expansion will help ease commute times and increase the comfort for millions of residents and visitors in the city, while operating with high efficiency and reducing carbon emissions.”
To date, approximately 50% of Egypt’s substations are built by Siemens’ technology, improving national grid stability and responsiveness. In addition, the company has completed three 14.8 gigawatt highly-efficient combined-cycle power plants in Egypt – Burullus, New Capital and Beni Suef – in 2018. Today, 26% of the country’s electric generating capacity is supplied through Siemens’ technology and a large proportion of its transmission and distribution network.