GE and XD Electric Group have formed of a new partnership that combines GE's grid automation capabilities with XD Electric's comprehensive portfolio of primary high-voltage (HV) equipment. Together, GE's and XD's combined portfolios will provide utilities with the T&D solutions necessary to outpace these megatrends, increasing their electricity demand. GE and XD also will provide energy-intensive industries with the HV solutions necessary to meet the rapid electrification of industrial processes. Originally announced in May 2012, the partnership expands GE's capabilities as a leading provider of transmission and distribution (T&D) solutions and creates a new global competitor to provide utilities and energy-intensive industries with HV solutions. “With over 80 years of presence in the Middle East region, we're currently focused on grid expansion projects and greenfield network interconnections as we continue to create a modern power grid that is stable, resilient and energy efficient. This is in line with the emphasis that regional governments place on boosting the energy sector infrastructure, with a particular focus on sustainability, to meet growing demand from an increasing population and greater urbanization,” said Jalal Qutob, Regional Product Leader – High Voltage Solutions, GE Digital Energy. “Adding high-voltage capabilities will help our utility customers to transmit power with minimal losses over long distances and rough terrains—from the generation point to the consumers in large cities. We'll also continue to eliminate power islands, creating energy reserves and allowing us to more efficiently use a greater supply of energy,” he added. Through the partnership, GE and XD will offer end-to-end T&D solutions to meet growing demand for electricity in the emerging economies of the Middle East where demographic and urbanization trends are creating a need to build out the current grid infrastructure. — SG
