ABB wins energy contract in Algeria

ABB has won a contract worth more than $210m from the Algerian oil and gas company Sonatrach to expand existing compressor and power systems. The project was awarded to ABB and a joint venture company operated by ABB’s Italian subsidiary and Sonatrach.

The improvements in the Hassi R'Mel fields will support an expected increase in natural gas exports to Europe of some 30bn cubic metres per year over the next five years.

Under the project, three existing compressor stations serving the Hassi R'Mel natural gas fields will be expanded. ABB’s scope of supply includes engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning of the new stations, including new turbo compressors, upgrades to existing compressors, and gas coolers. ABB will also provide new low-voltage and medium-voltage power distribution systems and enhancements to existing automation systems. The work will be completed over a period of 32 months.

ABB has several ongoing projects with Sonatrach, including a major oil-treatment plant in the Bir Berkine basin and a $150m contract for TFT gas compressor stations awarded in late 2004.