The first independent power supply system for Dubai Metro is energized

The MPS has a maximum installed capacity of 160 MVA with dual step-down 132/33 KV transformers. The MPS is fully automated and equipped with advanced protection and monitoring systems in addition to fire fighting systems. The other MPS stations 2 and 3 are located at Union Square and are under construction for powering the entire Red and Green Line networks.

Eng. Adnan Al Hammadi, Rail Construction Director RTA said, "The metro trial runs will commence within next 3 to 4 months. MPS 1 will provide the necessary power for the initial test track on the Red line.. MPS 1, 2 and 3 together will provide entire power supply for the metro operation including rail stations for the Red and Green lines serving the metro routes of 52.1KM from Rashidiya to Jebel Ali and 22 KM from Qusais to Al Jaddaf respectively."

"The design of Dubai Metro power network is very robust and reliable. In the unlikely total failure of any one MPS the metro operations will not be affected on the entire rail network. Dubai Metro utilizes the concept of braking power regeneration to help minimize power consumption from DEWA grid" he added.

The construction and commissioning ofthe 132KV substations is a complex network of event from various experts in electrical engineering. The rail agency engineers ensured all parties remained in coordination, issues resolved, and decisions were promptly taken in consultation with DEWA to achieve this important milestone. Everyone in the team worked round the clock to complete the specified work in a given time schedule.

"The power system is one of the major components in Metro operation. Special emphasis was therefore placed to ensure very reliable and failsafe system for Dubai Metro. RTA continuously co-coordinated with DEWA to ensure the implementation of power network in complete compliance with DEWA and international standards", said Mr. Adnan added.

The Metro Power system network will be fully monitored and controlled from dedicated Operations Control Centre (OCC) for all normal and emergency situations to ensure safe and reliable metro operations.

The electrically powered Dubai Metro will strengthen the environmentally friendly concept in which Dubai is committed and indirectly help reduce the air pollution by reducing vehicle traffic on the road.

Engineer Al Hammadi also thanked DEWA on behalf of the RTA Rail Agency for their cooperation and continious support to achieve the project.