Work has begun on the installation of the first transformer at the Egypt-Saudi Arabia electricity interconnection station in Badr City, a major step forward in the construction of the landmark project, reported the Daily News Egypt.

The 500-kilovolt facility, once completed, will be the first of its kind in the Middle East in terms of size and manufacturing technology, operation and use of interconnectors with electrical grids.

The project, which is expected to be operational in two phases, will create new opportunities for Egypt and Saudi Arabia, with the first phase scheduled to begin in July 2025, stated the Daily News Egypt.

The project is expected to be fully operational by early 2026 and is estimated to cost $1.8 billion.