Pennsylvania Power & Light Co. and Gilbert/Commonwealth have signed a $13.4 million contract to provide engineering consulting and construction management services to the Egyptian Electric Authority.

The two Pennsylvania-based companies are teaming up to help Egypt's state-run electric company develop bid specifications, evaluate bids, select contractors and monitor construction for several power system improvement projects. Funding for the contracted work has been provided by the U.S. Agency for International Development.

Previously, PP&L and Gilbert/Commonwealth worked together on a project to refurbish fossil-fuel power plants in Romania.

Gilbert/Commonwealth, an engineering consulting firm based in Reading, was one of the first energy consultants from the United States to establish a presence in Egypt. It has worked with the Egyptian Electric Authority on seven generation projects.

Pennsylvania Power & Light Co., a subsidiary of Allentown-based PP&L Resources, Inc., provides electric service to 1.2 million homes and businesses in 29 counties of eastern and central Pennsylvania.

PP&L is pursuing international business opportunities that enable it to use its experience in operating a successful electric utility.