Saudi Arabia Distribution Network Automation Upgrade Project Solution: Recloser Application and Technical Synergy

1.Project Background and Demand Analysis​

​1.1 Saudi Distribution Network Upgrade Requirements​
Saudi Arabia is advancing its "Vision 2030" energy transition plan, aiming to achieve ​40% distribution network automation by 2025​. Key initiatives include deploying ​33,000 intelligent ring main units (RMUs) and reclosers​ in 11 cities like Riyadh and Dammam to enhance grid reliability and renewable energy integration. Current challenges include:

• ​Aging Infrastructure: Existing RMUs and pole-mounted circuit breakers lack remote monitoring, leading to prolonged fault restoration.
• ​High-Temperature Adaptation: Traditional equipment struggles in extreme temperatures exceeding 45°C.
• ​Renewable Integration Pressure: Rapid deployment of solar and energy storage projects demands faster grid response.

1.2​ Rockwill’s Technological Advantages​
Rockwill specializes in medium-voltage switchgear, offering:

• ​Intelligent Vacuum Switches: Enable rapid fault isolation and remote interaction.
• ​Digital Substation Systems: Compatible with smart grid architectures.
• ​High-Temperature Design: Weather-resistant epoxy resin enclosures and self-cooling mechanisms, validated via KEMA certification.

​2.Technical Solution Design​

​2.1 Core Functions of Reclosers​

• ​High-Temperature Resilience: Self-cooling designs and heat-resistant materials ensure stable operation at 45°C.
• ​Fast Fault Handling: DSP chips and permanent magnet actuators reduce response time to ≤20 ms, supporting directional overcurrent protection.
• ​Digital Integration: GPRS communication links to SCADA systems for real-time fault location and predictive maintenance.

2.2​ Integration with Distribution Automation Systems​

• ​Compatibility: Reclosers align with Saudi Electricity Company (SEC)’s IEC 101/DNP3.0 protocols.
• ​Synergy with RMUs: Collaborate with ​33,000 RMUs​ deployed by China Electric Equipment Group (CEEG) to build a self-healing network, reducing outage time to ≤3 minutes.
• ​Renewable Adaptation: Synchronized switching technology minimizes overvoltage during solar integration, supporting projects like Red Sea Energy Storage.

​2.3 Localized Service Support​

• ​Remote Diagnostics: Reduces manual inspections in extreme heat.
• ​Training Programs: Partner with SEC to establish local maintenance teams.

​3.Implementation and Collaboration​

3.1​ Pilot Phase (2025–2026)​​

• ​Priority Deployment: Replace aging equipment in Riyadh and Dammam, targeting ​5,000 reclosers​ alongside CEEG’s RMUs.
• ​Performance Testing: Validate reliability during summer peaks.

3.2​ Scale-Up Phase (2027–2028)​​

• ​Local Manufacturing: Partner with ACWA Power or Chinese EPC firms (e.g., Tgood) to establish production in Jeddah Free Zone.
• ​Regional Expansion: Export to GCC countries via Saudi’s logistics hubs.

3.3​ Full Coverage (2029–2030)​​

• ​Renewable Projects: Support NEOM City and Red Sea Storage (1,300 MWh) with recloser solutions.
• ​Smart Grid Expansion: Align with Saudi’s ​58.7 GW renewable target​ through digital substations.

​4.Economic and Social Value​

4.1 ​Cost and Efficiency Gains​

• ​30% Lower O&M Costs: Remote monitoring and predictive maintenance reduce manual efforts.
• ​60% Fewer Outages: Enhanced reliability improves customer satisfaction.

4.2 ​Market and Brand Impact​

• ​Niche Market Leadership: Tap into Saudi’s ​​$20 billion power equipment market​ (8% annual growth).
• ​Strategic Benchmarking: Establish Rockwill as a “Smart China” brand via flagship projects.

​Rockwill’s recloser-centric solution aligns with Saudi’s Vision 2030, combining ​localized collaboration​ and ​technical innovation​ to optimize costs and accelerate energy transition. Future opportunities include replicating this model across the Middle East and Africa, leveraging Saudi’s logistics and renewable leadership