Services
We Offer a Range of Power System Services to Meet Your Needs
Our consultancy offers a comprehensive range of power system services designed to optimize safety, performance, and regulatory compliance. We specialize in earthing surveys & designs, Our condition monitoring services help track the health of critical infrastructure, allowing for proactive maintenance and minimizing downtime.
Compliance Studies
For all embedded generators connected to the DNO networks it is necessary to meet the requirements of the ENA G99 standard. This standard details various performance requirements for generators depending on their rating (in MW) and connection voltage. These studies are, split into four main categories, as shown below. Type A Generators (1MW and 10MW and 50MW and/or connected at 110kV and above), are more or less identical to Type C generators.  Type B studies are quick and easy to do and can be done in under a week – assuming all the information is readily available and an engineer is free. Type C/D studies are practically identical, but are a little harder to complete as they require more extensive dynamic modelling of the inverter and the PPC. The key to all the studies and simplifying the approval process, is starting early and good data handover. For all embedded generators connected to the DNO networks it is necessary to meet the requirements of the ENA G99 standard. This standard details various performance requirements for generators depending on their rating (in MW) and connection voltage. These studies are, split into four main categories, as shown below. Type A Generators (1MW and 10MW and 50MW and/or connected at 110kV and above), are more or less identical to Type C generators.  Type B studies are quick and easy to do and can be done in under a week – assuming all the information is readily available and an engineer is free. Type C/D studies are practically identical, but are a little harder to complete as they require more extensive dynamic modelling of the inverter and the PPC. The key to all the studies and simplifying the approval process, is starting early and good data handover.
For all embedded generators connected to the DNO networks it is necessary to meet the requirements of the ENA G99 standard. This standard details various performance requirements for generators depending on their rating (in MW) and connection voltage. These studies are, split into four main categories, as shown below.​
Type A Generators (<1MW) do not require any special analysis;
Type B Generators (>1MW and <10MW) which require a Fault Ride Through (FRT) study, Limited Frequency Sensitive – Over (LFSM-O) study, and a basic reactive power flow study.
Type C Generators (>10MW and <50MW), that require a full spread of studies including Reactive Power Flow, Reactive Power Stability, FRT, LFSM-O, LFSM-U and FSM-O.
Type D Generators (>50MW and/or connected at 110kV and above), are more or less identical to Type C generators. Type B studies are quick and easy to do and can be done in under a week – assuming all the information is readily available and an engineer is free. Type C/D studies are practically identical, but are a little harder to complete as they require more extensive dynamic modelling of the inverter and the PPC. The key to all the studies and simplifying the approval process, is starting early and good data handover.
Earthing Studies
Earth Potential Rise and Touch and Step Voltage Calculations Earthing and grounding studies are an essential design requirement for all new HV / EHV electrical systems. These studies are carried out to ENA 41-24, BS En 50522 and sometimes to IEEE-80, and are used to assess the Earth Potential Rise (EPR) and the associated touch and step voltages of a site. Power system earthing is a complex, iterative design process which needs to determine the soil resistivity, DNO fault levels and metallic return paths back to the upstream source substations. These studies are carried out in either CDEGS or XGSLab allowing creation of complex site models containing localized soil volumes and induced voltages on below ground and above ground systems.
Earthing Designs
Earthing System Design at Grid Labs Earthing and grounding studies are a critical design requirement for all new HV and EHV electrical systems, playing a key role in ensuring safety and system integrity. At Grid Labs, we specialize in delivering complete, compliant, and cost-effective earthing designs tailored to each project's site-specific conditions. Our designs adhere to key standards such as ENA 41-24, BS EN 50522, IEEE-80, IEC 62305, ENA S34, and BS 7430, ensuring that all systems meet regulatory and operational safety requirements. Using advanced software tools like CDEGS and XGSLab, we model complex site conditions, including localized soil volumes, metallic return paths, and induced voltages on both underground and above-ground systems. Our earthing studies accurately assess Earth Potential Rise (EPR) and associated touch and step voltages, helping to determine whether a site is classified as Cold or Hot. Power system earthing is inherently complex and requires an iterative approach. We begin by determining key inputs such as soil resistivity, DNO fault levels, and the presence of metallic return paths to the upstream substations. From there, we optimize conductor sizing and earth nest layouts to ensure safety and efficiency while minimizing costs. Our comprehensive services include: Calculation of EPR and safe touch/step voltages Generation of 3D voltage contour plots Optimized rod and conductor layouts based on geotechnical and electrical data Design of exclusion zones for sensitive areas Transferred potential mitigation Seamless integration with lightning protection systems With deep domain expertise and a collaborative team approach, Grid Labs delivers robust earthing solutions that ensure personnel, equipment, and environments remain fully protected under all operating conditions.
Earthing Tests & Surveys
Earthing Surveys and Testing at Grid Labs At Grid Labs, we offer comprehensive earthing surveys and testing services for all types of power systems to ensure the integrity and performance of installed earthing systems. Our goal is to verify that the earthing system is correctly installed, adequately rated for the required duty, and performing as designed—providing safety for personnel, equipment, and the surrounding environment. Our surveys typically begin with visual inspections of all accessible conductors, joints, and earth rods. This is followed by micro-ohmmeter testing to measure the resistance of connections and earth clamp meter testing to assess individual rod performance. We carry out soil resistivity surveys and Fall of Potential (FoP) tests to evaluate the underlying soil characteristics and validate the overall performance of the earthing system. Once an earthing system has been installed, we validate our designs and confirm that the actual earth grid impedance aligns with the values predicted in modelling software such as CDEGS or XGSLab. Our soil resistivity testing is typically carried out using the Wenner 4-pin method at multiple site locations, with electrode spacings in accordance with BS EN 50522. This provides a detailed understanding of the subsurface soil structure, which is crucial not only for validating existing systems but also for informing future upgrades or expansions. Whether validating an existing earthing system or troubleshooting site-specific grounding issues, our experienced engineers ensure all tests are performed with accuracy, safety, and full compliance with industry standards
Substation Lightning System Designs
Lightning Risk Assessments and Protection Design at Grid Labs At Grid Labs, we conduct detailed lightning risk assessments in accordance with IEC 62305, the globally recognized standard for lightning protection. These assessments are used to determine both the probability of a lightning strike and the potential consequences to a site or asset. When the risk is deemed non-negligible, we design and recommend appropriate lightning protection systems—ranging from basic air terminals and down conductors to more advanced solutions such as lightning masts and overhead shield wires. Our designs employ internationally accepted techniques including the Rolling Sphere Method, Cone of Protection, and Protective Angle Method, all in alignment with IEEE Std 998, which is particularly relevant for substation shielding. In addition, LEMP (Lightning Electromagnetic Impulse) protection is evaluated—especially for low-voltage systems—to ensure internal equipment is safeguarded using appropriate Surge Protection Devices (SPDs), in line with IEC 62305-4 and IEEE Std 1410 for distribution-level systems. For transmission lines, we follow IEEE Std 1243, which provides best practices for improving lightning performance through shielding and tower grounding. Where necessary, we also reference IEC 60071 for insulation coordination to ensure compatibility between surge arresters and system withstand levels. It is important to note that while lightning risk assessments and protection designs address external and internal protection, they are not the same as insulation coordination or lightning impulse studies, which fall under system-specific transient analysis. At Grid Labs, all assessments and designs are performed in accordance with applicable standards, including: IEC 62305 Parts 1–4 (risk management, physical protection, LEMP) IEEE Std 998 (substation shielding) IEEE Std 1243 (transmission line protection) IEEE Std 1410 (distribution line protection) IEC/BS EN 60071 (insulation coordination) BS EN 62305 (UK/EU adaptation of IEC 62305) Our team ensures every solution is tailored to the site-specific risk, delivering safe, reliable, and standards-compliant lightning protection
Protection Design & Settings Coordination
Correct protection settings of relays are of vital importance to any electrical system, as it ensures that should a fault occur, only the faulted item of equipment is removed form service, and the healthy equipment is kept on line. If the protection study has not been coordinated correctly and there is insufficient grading margin, a simple LV fault can trip a whole HV substation. Aurora has experience of undertaking a wide range of protection grading studies from simple over current earth fault coordination studies for a Ring Main Unit, up to configuring complex differential protection schemes and investigating nuisance protection trips. Protection studies can be carried out using either ETAP or DIgSILENT software package. These packages allow overall grading to be carried out, but also check of response to system disturbances, through simulation of faults on any part of the network to confirm the exact operating sequence and times for the protective devices
Protection Coordination Studies
Protection Studies and Relay Coordination at Grid Labs At Grid Labs, we carry out detailed protection studies and relay coordination to ensure electrical systems operate safely and reliably under fault conditions. Correctly configured protection settings are essential—they ensure that when a fault occurs, only the affected equipment is isolated while the rest of the system remains in service. Poor coordination or insufficient grading margins can result in widespread outages, such as a low-voltage fault tripping an entire high-voltage substation. Our team has extensive experience conducting a wide range of protection grading studies—from basic overcurrent and earth fault coordination for Ring Main Units (RMUs) to advanced differential protection schemes, and the diagnosis of nuisance protection trips. We work with protection relays from leading manufacturers including ABB, SEL (Schweitzer Engineering Laboratories), Siemens, Eaton and Schneider, ensuring compatibility and precise implementation across diverse system architectures. Protection studies are performed using industry-standard software tools such as ETAP and DIgSILENT PowerFactory, which allow us to model entire networks, apply fault conditions, and simulate the exact operating sequence and clearing times of protective devices. These platforms also support setting coordination, ensuring proper grading between relays and confirming that protection devices operate in the correct order during system disturbances. Our services include: Relay settings coordination and validation Grading margin assessments to avoid maloperation Simulation of faults across different network points Coordination of primary and backup protection schemes Configuration and testing of differential, distance, overcurrent, and earth fault protection Detailed reports outlining operating times, selectivity, and recommendations for relay settings At Grid Labs, our approach ensures protection systems are not only technically sound, but also fully aligned with operational requirements and vendor-specific capabilities.
Protection Systems Design
At Grid Labs, we provide complete protection system design services for electrical networks ranging from MV to EHV levels. Our work ensures the safe, selective, and reliable isolation of faults to maintain system stability and equipment integrity. From initial concept through to construction-ready documentation, our team delivers detailed, technically sound, and standards-compliant designs tailored to each client’s infrastructure and operational needs. We begin by developing equipment specifications for protection relays, CTs, VTs, circuit breakers, and auxiliary components—ensuring compatibility with existing systems and alignment with project requirements. We work with trusted vendors including SEL, ABB, Siemens, GE, and Schneider Electric, allowing us to recommend and configure best-in-class protection devices across diverse system architectures. Our engineers prepare comprehensive protection and control drawings, including: Single line diagrams Protection logic and scheme diagrams Wiring and termination diagrams Relay configuration and I/O maps Panel layout and interconnection drawings We also provide detailed material take-offs and quantification, supporting procurement and construction planning. All protective devices are carefully selected and coordinated, with settings developed to match fault levels, equipment withstand ratings, and operational requirements. This includes the configuration of: Overcurrent and earth fault protection Distance and differential schemes Busbar, transformer, feeder, and motor protection Breaker failure, autoreclose, and intertripping schemes Each design is validated through protection studies and simulations using ETAP or DIgSILENT PowerFactory, ensuring relay settings are coordinated and system behavior under fault conditions is fully verified. Our scope often includes integration with SCADA, RTUs, and communication protocols (e.g., IEC 61850, DNP3, Modbus), ensuring full visibility and control of the protection system. Whether supporting greenfield substations or brownfield retrofit projects, Grid Labs delivers protection system designs that are practical, robust, and installation-ready, with complete documentation, clear protection philosophy, and field-tested engineering practices.
Power Quality
Harmonic analysis is carried out to identify the level of harmonic distortion on a network, that contains harmonic polluting sources, such as inverters and variable speed drives. The analysis is carried out to standard such as ENA G5.5, ENA G5.4, IEC 61000-3 and IEEE-519, and are used to determine individual levels of voltage and current harmonic distortion and the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) on key busbars and identify any resonance points. Use and generation of harmonic impedance loci can sometimes be beneficial for these studies, but in other scenarios can lead to overly conservative results and unnecessary harmonic filters. It is important to note that traditional ENA G5.4 and ENA G5.5 studies only assess the harmonics at the point of connection / common coupling, and it is often beneficial to extend the scope to consider the actual distortion levels on other key busbars within the system. Studies are usually carried out in DIgSILENT Powerfactory or ETAP using a simplified balanced loadflow method, but it is also possible to carry out unbalanced analysis, to consider harmonic cancellation and the behaviour in the positive negative and zero sequence networks. In some very advanced cases it is also possible to use EMT analysis to identify the true level of harmonics in the network.
Harmonic Studies
At Grid Labs, we perform in-depth harmonic analysis to assess the level of harmonic distortion on electrical networks, especially in systems with harmonic-generating sources like inverters, variable speed drives (VSDs), and other non-linear loads. Harmonics can cause system instability, overheating of equipment, and interference with sensitive devices, which is why accurate analysis and mitigation are crucial. Our harmonic studies follow established international standards such as ENA G5.5, ENA G5.4, IEC 61000-3, and IEEE-519, to evaluate both voltage and current harmonic distortion. We focus on key parameters such as the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) at critical busbars and identify potential resonance points that may amplify harmonic effects. These analyses help determine whether mitigation measures, such as harmonic filters, are required to maintain system integrity and compliance with regulatory limits. ​ Traditional ENA G5.4 and ENA G5.5 studies typically focus on harmonic levels at the point of common coupling (PCC). However, we extend our studies to evaluate harmonic distortion on other key busbars and system nodes to provide a more comprehensive view of network performance and ensure system-wide compliance. Our harmonic analysis is performed using industry-leading software tools such as DIgSILENT PowerFactory and ETAP, utilizing a simplified balanced load flow method for typical scenarios. For more complex networks, we conduct unbalanced harmonic analysis to assess the behavior of harmonics across positive, negative, and zero sequence networks. In advanced cases, we may also employ Electromagnetic Transients (EMT) analysis to accurately capture the true harmonic behavior of the network and understand the transient impacts of harmonic distortion. At Grid Labs, we provide actionable insights into harmonic mitigation, ensuring that systems are not only compliant but also optimized for performance, efficiency, and longevity.
Voltage Unbalance Studies
At Grid Labs, we perform detailed voltage unbalance studies as part of our comprehensive electrical network analysis services.We conduct voltage unbalance studies in compliance with standards such as ENA P28 and ENA P29, which focus on voltage disturbances and unbalance analysis. These studies help assess the potential impacts of unbalanced loads on system performance, equipment lifespan, and network stability. For more complex networks or where greater accuracy is required, we also perform unbalanced harmonic load flow studies to evaluate the effect of unbalance on both voltage and current harmonics. These studies are carried out using tools like DIgSILENT PowerFactory and ETAP, ensuring reliable results in line with industry standards. In addition to voltage unbalance, our team routinely carries out IEC 61000-3-6 analysis to evaluate the effects of harmonic distortion on the network, ensuring compliance with international standards such as IEEE-519. We also consider BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) power swing and ramp rate limitations, as well as perform Grid Code RVC/SVC analysis to evaluate the interaction between voltage and reactive power. At Grid Labs, we ensure all systems, whether low-voltage, high-voltage, or renewable energy, are fully analyzed for voltage unbalance and harmonic issues. Our thorough analysis and mitigation strategies ensure compliance, minimize the risk of equipment damage, and enhance overall system efficiency and performance
Power System Studies
Loadflow studies are steady state analysis calculations, that are used to validate how the system performs during normal, outages and standby conditions. As part of the loadflow analysis the system is analysed for active (MW) and reactive (MVAr) power flows, in order to identify the need for any shunt MVAr compensation equipment or power factor correction. Studies are used to identify equipment loadings, the network voltage profile, transformer tap changer requirements, system losses, generator ratings and loadings, and for more complex DNO network outage and contingency cases are analysed in detail. Studies can be carried out in either DIgSILENT or ETAP.
Network Planning & Concept Studies
At Grid Labs, we take a holistic approach to network planning and reinforcement studies, ensuring that electrical systems are designed, optimized, and reinforced to meet both current and future needs. These studies assess how a network should be developed and reinforced, ranging from simple load flow and short-circuit studies to more complex analyses that integrate reliability, availability, dynamic ratings, and quasi-dynamic studies. The goal is to balance technical requirements against cost considerations, ensuring that the infrastructure is robust, scalable, and financially viable over the long term. In parallel, concept studies are carried out at the earliest stages of a project to establish the foundation for network development. These studies are used to determine key equipment ratings and specifications and can serve as a validation exercise for a proposed design or as the basis for creating a network topology and configuration. A well-developed concept study addresses the customer’s overarching objectives by balancing technical robustness with cost efficiency, considering factors such as constructability, operability, and long-term maintenance. Typical considerations in concept studies include determining the required level of system reliability, optimizing equipment ratings, confirming short-circuit ratings, identifying transformer impedances, and specifying tap changer requirements. The aim is to develop designs to a level that enables accurate cost estimates and ensures that the project aligns with both technical and financial expectations. Furthermore, our studies incorporate industry standards such as IEC 60076 (transformer design), IEEE C37.010 (switchgear ratings), and IEC 60909 (short-circuit calculations) to ensure compliance with the highest safety and performance standards. Ultimately, the combined goal of network planning, reinforcement, and concept studies is to determine what technical investments are needed, where those investments should be made, and when they should be implemented. By applying best practices in project management, such as risk assessment, schedule management, and resource allocation, we ensure that all network development and reinforcement decisions are strategically aligned with the client’s objectives and future network demands.
Power System Studies
At Grid Labs, we conduct a full range of power system studies to ensure the efficient operation and safety of electrical networks. Loadflow studies are used to assess system performance under normal, outage, and standby conditions, identifying the need for shunt compensation and power factor correction. These studies evaluate equipment loadings, network voltage profiles, transformer tap changers, and system losses, and can be carried out using DIgSILENT or ETAP. Fault level and short-circuit studies determine the suitability of switchgear and circuit breakers, ensuring they can handle the fault duty as per standards such as IEC 60909, ENA G74, and IEEE C37.010. We also consider complex scenarios involving high X/R ratios and asymmetrical fault duty, utilizing RMS and EMT modelling for more detailed fault analysis, including compliance with IEC 62271-37-13. Additionally, cable sizing studies ensure safe and cost-effective design for networks from 6.6 kV to HVDC systems. We analyze sheath currents, losses, and use advanced methods like cyclic ratings and FEM modelling (using tools like Cableizer & ETAP ) to optimize cable selection and placement. Bonding strategies are also explored to maximize cable ratings and minimize risks. These studies collectively provide crucial insights into network design, ensuring compliance, safety, and cost efficiency.