The new plant is included in PEEGT's capital works programme for 2005, which has just been finalised and also includes the construction of a new 750-MW combined cycle plant at Deir Ezor. Work was scheduled to start in 2004 but the project has been beset by delays. The estimated $400 million engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for the plant is currently out to tender, with an extended deadline of 24 January.

The programme includes the construction of nine substations, including four 230/66/20-kV and three 400/230-kV conventional substations, and the conversion of two 400/230-kV conventional substations to gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). Also in the programme are plans to install about 400 kilometres of 400-kV overhead transmission line and 500 kilometres of 230-kV overhead transmission line.

PEEGT sources say financial bids will be opened in mid-November for the estimated $400 million EPC contract for the 700-MW combined cycle power plant at Deir Ali. Bids are being evaluated by the consultant, Ireland's ESB International, from the Germanjoint venture of Siemensand Kochand from Spain's Iberdrola. The contract calls for the supply and installation of two 250-MW gas turbines and a 250-MW steam turbine (MEED 13:8:04).

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