Saudi Arabia’s first wind turbine launched in Turaif by Aramco in 2017
Aramco installed Saudi Arabia’s first wind turbine in Turaif in January 2017 to power a petroleum distribution station and supply surplus electricity to the grid.
Key Takeaways
AISaudi Aramco inaugurated the Kingdom’s first wind-powered electricity turbine in January 2017 in Turaif, located in the Northern Borders region.
The company said Turaif was selected from four potential sites due to its strong wind resources, accessibility, and available grid connection.
The turbine has a maximum capacity of 2.75 megawatts. Aramco estimated its output could meet the electricity needs of around 250 homes and save the equivalent of about 19,000 barrels of oil annually.
The turbine tower stands 85 meters tall, with blades spanning 120 meters in diameter. At their highest point, the blade tips reach 145 meters above ground. The turbine was designed with protective features suitable for desert conditions.
The turbine is connected to the electricity distribution network at the petroleum products distribution station. According to Aramco, the project aims to fully meet the station’s electricity needs and supply any surplus to the main grid.