WINNER GCC POWER & WATER PROJECT OF THE YEAR

Qatar

Mesaieed A, Independent Power Project

Entrant: Iberdrola

Client: Mesaieed Power Company

Main contractor: Iberdrola Ingenieria y Construccion

Description: One of the biggest projects in the region, Mesaieed A has the capacity to supply electricity to a large percentage of the industrial and residential areas of Qatar. As such, it is considered vital to the country’s growing population. At the most critical stage of the project, 5,300 people were employed, contributing directly to the growth of Qatari businesses. The aim of the power plant is not only to supply the nation, but also to sell electricity to other GCC states. During the construction of Mesaieed A, two environmental factors were considered. Biophysical impact was limited, with supervision of the coastal ecosystem, including standards to mitigate water pollution. Social considerations including noise control and measurement of air pollution were also addressed, the latter being treated and reduced to standards set by the Environment Ministry.

UAE

High-voltage Substations for the Nad al-Sheba Race Course at Meydan

Entrant: Emirates Electrical Engineering

Client: Meydan City Corporation, Dubai

End user: Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (Dewa)

Main contractor: Emirates Electrical Engineering

Architect: TAK Design Consultants

Description: Architecture was key to the design of this project to deliver electricity at the iconic Meydan race course in Dubai. Ensuring that the building housing the substations fitted perfectly with the surrounding structures and complemented the race course was central to the project brief. This meant a high degree of collaboration between the main contractor and the many other stakeholders involved in the development of this major sporting venue. A workforce of 60 engineers, supported by up to 400 inter-agency multi-disciplined staff, completed this project in the fastest time for any substation under Dewa mandate.

Qatar

West Bay Transmission Project, Doha

Entrant: Mott MacDonald

Client: Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (KAHRAMAA)

Lead consulting engineer: Mott MacDonald

Main contractors: Areva T&D, Siemens, ABB

Architects: AEB, KEO International Consultants

Description: The project brief to distribute power to 150 towers in the West Bay area of Doha meant the establishment of a major power supply grid. The project’s success depended on direct liaison with the various contractors responsible for delivering the high-rise towers. Coordination and collaboration were essential and the lead consultant in the process managed the tendering and communication to achieve the goals of all parties involved. A negative aesthetic impact was avoided with forward planning to ensure the architecture and design were in line with the proposed towers. This was achieved through a competition judged by His Highness the Emir of Qatar.