Saudi Arabia’s power transmission sector continues to expand rapidly, driven by large-scale PV and wind generation projects and the need for robust 380kV Bulk Supply Points (BSPs). In 2025, a total of 20 major 380kV BSP projects were announced and opened, offering a clear picture of how EPC contracts are distributed among leading contractors. Some…
Author: Engr. Hamid Ali
The Electrical Power System in Data Centers
In today’s digital era, our daily lives depend heavily on the cloud. Financial transactions, communications, and business operations all rely on data centers. These facilities are the hidden engines of the modern world. However, they are now under intense scrutiny. Data centers frequently make headlines for their massive power consumption and their impact on the…
Protection Signaling (PSE) Migration: Digital to Optical Ethernet over MPLS
Protection Signaling Equipment (PSE) forms the critical communication backbone for transmission line protection schemes in modern power systems. This technical guide explores the migration from legacy Digital (E1/G.703) interfaces to Optical Ethernet interfaces over MPLS networks, explaining the technical rationale, implementation challenges, and practical considerations for utilities and EPC contractors. This guide provides comprehensive technical…
Autotransformers in EHV Power Systems: Theory, Maths & Practice
Autotransformers are among the most misunderstood yet critically important assets in modern power systems. While they appear deceptively simple at low voltages, at EHV levels (380–500 kV) they become system-defining components that directly influence fault levels, insulation coordination, grounding, and grid stability. This article provides a complete, utility-grade explanation of autotransformers, covering theory, mathematics, IEC…
Auxiliary Transformer Sizing (Substation Primary Design Course)
In this post, we wil explain auxiliary transformer sizing, as per SEC/National Grid standards. Auxiliary transformers play a critical but often underestimated role in substation design. While power transformers transmit energy to the grid, auxiliary transformers ensure the substation itself stays alive—supplying power to protection, control, HVAC, lighting, motors, communication systems, and essential services.This is…
The Rise of SF6-Free Switchgear: Alternatives, Advantages, and the Road Ahead
SF₆-free switchgear is no longer a future concept. Manufacturers have already begun mass-producing equipment without SF₆, and many installations worldwide are operating successfully today. In this post, we will discuss the following: The End of SF6? Why the Electrical Industry is Going SF6-Free For over 50 years, Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6) has been the backbone of the electrical…
Safety Assessment at Saudi Aramco Part 3
This is a safety assessment exam at Saudi Aramco part 3 and it covers MCQs 31-50. It is a practice test for all the interested safety profeccionals at Saudi Aramco, which is the world’s largest oil company and a major player in the energy sector based in Saudi Arabia. The primary purpose of this document is to test the…
Classification of Lightning Protection Systems
In this post we are providing you an overview of Classification of Lightning Protection Systems (LPS). Lightning Protection Systems (LPS) are categorized into four classes (I, II, III, and IV). This classification is based on the level of lightning protection required. These classes are defined in IEC 62305 (Protection Against Lightning). The higher the class…
Safety Assessment at Saudi Aramco Part 2
This is a safety assessment exam at Saudi Aramco part 2 and it covers MCQs 21-30. It is a practice test for all the interested safety profeccionals at Saudi Aramco, which is the world’s largest oil company and a major player in the energy sector based in Saudi Arabia. The primary purpose of this document is to test the…
Safety Assessment at Saudi Aramco
This is a safety assessment exam and a practice test for all the interested safety profeccionals at Saudi Aramco, which is the world’s largest oil company and a major player in the energy sector based in Saudi Arabia. The primary purpose of this document is to test the your knowledge on critical safety protocols and…