Powering change at Jabal Sayid: Grid connection brings Saudi copper mine closer to Net Zero
Electrifying the future of copper mining in Saudi Arabia
In the heart of Saudi Arabia’s Al Madinah Province, a major transition is underway. At the Jabal Sayid underground copper mine, diesel generators that have powered the operation for years are being switched off permanently.
In their place is a new high-voltage 132kV, 35MVA electrical grid connection.
This milestone aligns with the Saudi Government’s strategy to shift heavy industry away from fossil fuels and to support the long-term expansion of one of the country’s most important copper operations.
And Delonix Solutions is playing a critical role in making this transition possible.
A bold energy shift needs trusted execution
Thanks to a long-standing relationship with Ma’aden Barrick Copper Company (MBCC), Delonix Solutions was engaged to design, manage and deliver the new grid connection at Jabal Sayid.
This change-out will displace 32 x 1MW diesel generators and reduce the site’s reliance on liquid fuels. It will also connect the mine, processing plant and associated infrastructure to the national power grid.
Delonix Solutions led the integration of the new system, including decommissioning the old generators and managing a safe, reliable switch to grid power.
Principal electrical, instrumentations and controls (EIC) engineer Leif Bradbrook says the project’s impact is clear and significant.
“Delonix Solutions is very proud to be part of such a meaningful project for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia,” he said.
Delonix is supplying two 5MVAr switched high-voltage power factor correction enclosures to support grid stability at Jabal Sayid. They will be installed indoors on each side of the primary bus coupler providing a maximum correction of 10MVAr for the site.
From grid connection to high-voltage delivery
This brownfield upgrade called for deep technical capability and proven delivery know-how.
Delonix Solutions took full responsibility for key project elements, including:
• electrical design and drafting for the new overhead-line grid connection;
• a redundant PLC-based power management system, supported by a robust fibre-optic network;
• switchgear upgrades, fire compliance designs, and full ETAP studies for arc flash, fault levels and load flow;
• procurement and supplier oversight for key equipment, including high-voltage power factor correction units;
• civil and structural support, including pit design and switchroom foundations;
• tender documentation for new transformers, switchboards, earthing systems and more; and
• dual incoming circuits, designed for operational resilience and long-term expansion.
By early 2025, all major equipment were procured, with construction underway.
3D model showing the new extension (white framework) to the primary switchroom at Jabal Sayid. The blue part of the model represents the existing switchroom.
A practical step towards fossil fuel-free mining
The grid-tied system is on track to go live before the end of the year.
Once online, it will displace diesel consumption, reduce on-site emissions, simplify maintenance and improve energy reliability.
This electrification effort marks a major sustainability milestone for the Jabal Sayid mine and strengthens Saudi Arabia’s broader push towards low-carbon industrial development.
Engineering leadership with long-term value
And for Delonix Solutions, the Jabal Sayid grid connection is more than just another electrical project.
It’s a showcase of our ability to deliver fast, clean and compliant infrastructure that aligns with global ESG goals.
We didn’t just connect the mine to grid. We helped MBCC power a strategic shift.
Our integrated engineering supported the Saudi Arabian copper producer with smarter, lower-emissions infrastructure – from design to boots-on-the-ground delivery.
Existing switchgear inside the Jabal Sayid switchroom, upgraded with protection relays, arc flash detection and a new fibre optic power management communications network. Two additional panels are to be added, thereby facilitating the new 13.8kV incoming circuits from the grid.
Ready to future-proof your operations?
Whether you’re navigating energy transitions or planning your next infrastructure upgrade, Delonix Solutions is ready to help.
We support grid connections, decarbonisation initiatives and the delivery of cleaner, more efficient energy systems.
Contact Fil Resnik today to discuss how we can power what’s next, together.
Curious about how Saudi Arabia is scaling up copper supply and where Jabal Sayid fits in?
Explore our feature article here on the Kingdom’s copper growth and how strategic grid upgrades are helping unlock its full potential.
