DEWA deploys smart grid system to strengthen electricity network reliability

Dubai: Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has adopted an advanced smart system to enhance the reliability of its electricity distribution networks.The Automatic Smart Grid Restoration System (ASGR) is a pioneering solution focused on full automation and instant decision-making, supporting network readiness in line with Dubai’s rapid urban and economic growth. The system is currently being implemented within DEWA’s Distribution Power Division.Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of DEWA, said the initiative aligns with Dubai’s vision to become a global leader in smart and sustainable energy systems.“We continue to adopt smart and advanced solutions in electricity grid management and operation to ensure Dubai remains home to some of the most reliable, efficient and sustainable energy networks in the world,” he said.He added that the system represents a major advancement in grid resilience, enabling immediate fault response, minimising disruption to customers, and accelerating service restoration through real-time data and intelligent analytics.Smart and self-healing networksThe ASGR system automatically isolates faults in disrupted feeders and restores electricity supply to unaffected areas by transferring loads to adjacent circuits. This ensures continuity of service while enabling faster recovery.The system also improves fault detection accuracy through advanced isolation capabilities, allowing technical teams to identify affected areas more efficiently.All substations along the network are equipped with intelligent electronic devices and remote terminal units, providing real-time monitoring and operational visibility. This allows faster decision-making and more effective control of the distribution network.Advanced communication and efficiencyThe system uses modern peer-to-peer communication protocols to ensure reliable data transmission between substations and the distribution control centre.This innovation enhances operational intelligence across the network, improving reliability, optimising asset utilisation and supporting data-driven decision-making.It also contributes to improved safety by reducing unnecessary field interventions for technical teams.Supporting infrastructure resilienceRashid bin Humaidan, Executive Vice President of Distribution Power at DEWA, said the system marks a significant step towards fully automated, self-healing distribution networks.He noted that the implementation has already contributed to faster fault response times, improved reliability indicators and enhanced service continuity for customers.The adoption of ASGR reflects DEWA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening critical infrastructure, enhancing business continuity and reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global leader in smart energy solutions.