Zakaria El Intissar

Automation and industrial computing engineer passionate about innovation at the heart of the energy sector, I am a recognized specialist in control systems for electrical substations and SCADA solutions. With expertise forged by years of practical experience, I excel in the design, implementation, and optimization of these critical technologies, ensuring optimal reliability of energy infrastructures, including those integrating renewable energy sources, where I have contributed to innovative projects for a sustainable energy transition.

Author Archives: Zakaria El Intissar

IEC 61850-9-2 Sampled Values Communication for Digital Substations

The evolution of digital substations has transformed power system protection and automation. At the center of this evolution lies IEC 61850-9-2, titled “Specific Communication Service Mapping (SCSM) – Sampled Values over ISO/IEC 8802-3.” This standard defines how digitized analog values (currents and voltages) are transmitted over Ethernet between process-level devices—such as Merging Units (MUs), protection relays, and IEDs… Read More »

Blockchain-Based Energy Trading: How Decentralized Grids Are Transforming the Energy Market

Blockchain-based energy trading is a decentralized system that allows consumers and producers to buy, sell, or exchange electricity directly using blockchain technology. Instead of relying on a central utility or broker, blockchain enables peer-to-peer (P2P) energy transactions that are transparent, secure, and automated. In simple terms, it lets you trade electricity like digital currency — safely and instantly… Read More »

Smart Grid Definition: Meaning, Components, and Benefits Explained

A smart grid is a modern electricity network that uses digital communication, data analytics, and automation to improve how power is generated, distributed, and consumed. A smart grid is different from traditional grids. Traditional grids only send electricity from power plants to consumers. A smart grid allows communication between users and utilities in both directions. This allows the… Read More »

Performing Power Factor Test on Dry-Type Transformer During Commissioning

During transformer commissioning, one of the most important diagnostic procedures is the power factor test. This test assesses the dielectric losses in the transformer’s insulation system, which are directly related to insulation quality and integrity. For dry-type transformers, the power factor test helps identify potential insulation deterioration due to moisture, contamination, carbonization, or other degradation mechanisms that may… Read More »

Electrical Testing of Dry-Type Transformers

Dry-type transformers are integral to the electrical infrastructure of industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities. Because these transformers power critical systems, regular electrical testing and maintenance are essential to ensure safety, reliability, and performance. This article summarizes recommended electrical tests and maintenance practices for dry-type transformers rated 500 kVA and above, based on ANSI/NETA MTS-2019 (Maintenance Testing Specifications) and… Read More »

Dry-Type Transformer: The Complete Guide to What, Why & How

The term dry-type transformer refers to an electrical transformer that relies on air or solid insulation instead of liquid for cooling and insulation. If your power-distribution system demands high safety, low maintenance, and environmental compliance — then a dry-type transformer may be the ideal choice. In this guide you’ll learn what a dry-type transformer is, how it works,… Read More »

Electrical Substation Explained: Types, Components & Complete Guide 2025

An electrical substation is a critical node in the power system: it serves as the bridge between electricity generation/transmission and the end-user distribution network. Without substations, the electricity generated at power plants could not be efficiently transmitted over long distances and safely delivered for homes, industries or businesses. In this guide we will cover what an electrical substation… Read More »

Distance Protection Schemes: Working Principles, Types, and Comparison

Distance protection schemes play a vital role in ensuring reliable and speedy fault clearance on transmission lines. The fundamental idea behind distance protection is to measure the impedance between the relay location and the fault point, enabling the relay to detect faults within set zones. Conventional time-stepped distance protection, for instance, sets an instantaneous Zone 1 reach to about… Read More »

How to Calculate Battery Capacity for Design Engineers (Step-by-Step Guide)

If you’re a design engineer, you’ve likely received the infamous spec sheet from marketing that says: “Maximize run time, minimize battery size and cost.” No mention of how much runtime, how small the battery should be, or what cost is acceptable. It’s almost as if they’re hoping for a miracle—and you’re the one expected to deliver it. So… Read More »

Safety Distances from High-Voltage Power Lines: A Detailed Guide to Standards and Practices in the USA

High-voltage power lines are vital for the U.S. electrical infrastructure, but they present serious hazards like electrocution, arc flashes, and equipment damage if safety distances are not maintained. These distances, often called minimum approach distances (MAD) or clearances, are regulated to protect workers, the public, and property. This detailed guide, updated as of October 2025, draws from the… Read More »