Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has received a UAE patent for an advanced simulator designed to test substation automation systems, marking an important step to strengthen grid reliability while reducing risk and operational costs.
The Feeder Input-Output Simulator for Substation Automation Applications was developed in-house and is now being used within DEWA’s Power Transmission Division. The innovation allows engineers to safely and accurately test complex automation systems in a controlled virtual environment, without the need to work on live electronics or shut down substations.
The simulator replicates the behavior of real electrical equipment such as switches and protection relays, transmitting virtual signals to real control systems. This enables engineers to test multiple operating conditions, verify system responses and identify potential problems before systems are deployed in the field.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DEWA, said: “This technology demonstrates the vision of smart leadership to foster innovation that shapes our nation’s bright and sustainable future. It embodies DEWA’s approach to transform applied intelligence into tangible solutions that strengthen the resilience and sustainability of our energy infrastructure.
“The simulator emphasizes the ingenuity of our Emirati staff in developing advanced tools that enable safe and efficient testing of substation automation systems while speeding up project completion, reducing costs and improving safety standards.”
The simulator reduces risk, increases efficiency
By eliminating the need to test systems using live current, the simulator significantly reduces security risks for engineers while ensuring that automated systems are fully validated before they go live. DEWA said the tool has already delivered measurable benefits, including faster test cycles, reduced operational costs and improved overall system readiness.
This innovation also supports DEWA’s broader push towards digitization and innovation in the energy sector, helping to modernize grid operations and align with international best practice.
Hussain Lootah, Vice President of Transmission Power at DEWA, said: “This device is an important addition to the tools used by the Power Transmission Division, as it provides a safe and effective environment for testing substation automation systems. It improves the efficiency of work teams and accelerates the completion of work without compromising network security.”
DEWA said the simulator demonstrates its long-term commitment to organizational innovation and employee-led technology solutions that deliver real-world impact. By investing in advanced engineering tools, the authority aims to ensure the reliability, safety and sustainability of Dubai’s electricity network as demand grows.
The patented system strengthens DEWA’s position as a regional leader in energy innovation and supports the delivery of robust infrastructure that meets the needs of the city, its economy and its communities.
