Generators: diesel, gas, and hybrid options
Industrial diesel gensets in the 50–2500 kVA range cover the bulk of UAE backup-power demand. Caterpillar, Cummins, and Perkins units dominate the open-frame market, while soundproofed and containerised variants suit residential-adjacent and rooftop sites. Sizing follows the largest motor's starting kVA plus a 25% safety margin (use our generator calculator). For continuous-prime applications — desalination plants, remote sites — gas gensets running on natural gas or LPG offer lower fuel costs and longer overhaul intervals. Hybrid solar-diesel sets with battery storage are increasingly specified for EPC and oilfield camps where fuel logistics drive operating expense.
Transformers: oil-immersed vs dry-type
Distribution transformers in the 25–2500 kVA range are typically oil-immersed (ONAN cooling) for outdoor pad-mount applications and dry-type (cast resin or VPI) for indoor and substation installations. UAE specifications usually call for 11/0.433 kV or 33/0.433 kV step-down units with 4% impedance, off-circuit tap changer (±2.5% × 4 steps), and IP55 enclosures for coastal sites. Power transformers above 5 MVA serving heavy industry require on-load tap changers, dyn11 vector groups, and SCADA-compatible monitoring (Buchholz relay, oil temperature, winding temperature).
Switchgear and distribution panels
Low-voltage switchgear assemblies follow IEC 61439-1/-2 with type-test certificates from accredited labs (KEMA, ASTA). Form 4b internal segregation, 65 kA/1s short-circuit withstand, and Ir-rated busbar are standard for industrial main distribution boards. Medium-voltage switchgear (11 kV, 33 kV) is typically air-insulated metal-clad with vacuum or SF6 circuit breakers; gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) is preferred where footprint or coastal corrosion matters. Final distribution panels (sub-MDB, sub-DB) follow client single-line diagrams with motor protection relays, surge protection devices, and PFC capacitor banks where required.
Compliance, certifications, and FAT
Every unit Isovoltech supplies arrives with a documentation pack: certificate of origin, factory acceptance test (FAT) report, type-test certificates, dimensional drawings, single-line diagram, electrical schematics, operation and maintenance manuals, and where required, ETA-issued conformity assessments. UAE Civil Defence and DEWA approvals are coordinated upfront for projects requiring authority sign-off. SASO certification is handled for KSA-bound shipments.
Diesel vs gas vs hybrid generators
| Criteria | Diesel | Gas | Hybrid solar+diesel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capital cost | Low | Medium | High |
| Fuel cost | High | Low | Lowest (over 5 yr) |
| Installation lead time | 4–8 weeks | 10–16 weeks | 12–20 weeks |
| Best fit | Backup, peaking | Continuous prime | Remote, EPC camps |
| Emissions | Highest | Medium | Lowest |
Frequently asked questions
What size generator do I need for a UAE villa or office?
Take the total running load in kW, divide by power factor (0.8 for mixed loads), then add 25% margin. A typical 4-bedroom villa with central AC needs 30–40 kVA; a small office floor needs 50–80 kVA. Use our generator sizing calculator for a faster estimate.
Are your transformers DEWA-approved?
Yes — all transformers we supply for DEWA, SEWA, and ADDC projects come with the relevant authority approvals, type-test certificates, and pre-shipment inspection reports. SCECO and MEW approvals for KSA / Kuwait can be arranged on request.
What is the lead time on a 1500 kVA diesel genset?
Standard build is 6–8 weeks ex-works on stocked engine + alternator combinations (Caterpillar, Cummins, Volvo). Custom containerised or paralleled sets typically run 10–14 weeks. We confirm exact dates after the technical bid review.
Do you supply medium-voltage GIS switchgear?
Yes — 11 kV and 33 kV gas-insulated switchgear from Siemens, ABB, and Schneider, with vacuum or SF6 breakers, single or double busbar, and SCADA-ready protection relays.