Protection Engineer - Wind Power Project

A Protection Engineer in a wind power project is responsible for the design, coordination, testing, and commissioning of electrical protection systems to ensure the safe, reliable, and uninterrupted operation of wind turbines and associated power infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities⚡ Protection System Design

• Design and review protection schemes for:
• Wind Turbine Generators (WTGs)
• Collector systems (33 kV / 34.5 kV)
• Step-up transformers
• Substations (HV/MV)
• Transmission lines
• Develop single-line diagrams (SLDs), protection philosophies, and relay logic diagrams.

Relay Selection & Settings

• Select appropriate numerical protection relays (e.g., ABB, Siemens, Schneider, GE).
• Configure relay settings for:
• Overcurrent & earth fault
• Differential protection
• Distance protection
• Under/over voltage & frequency
• ROCOF, LVRT, HVRT, anti-islanding
• Ensure coordination between turbine, feeder, transformer, and grid protection.

Protection Coordination Studies

• Perform protection coordination and discrimination studies.
• Conduct short-circuit, load flow, and arc-flash studies using tools such as:
• ETAP
• DIgSILENT PowerFactory
• PSCAD (if required)

Testing & Commissioning

• Prepare relay testing procedures and commissioning plans.
• Perform:
• Secondary injection tests
• Logic and interlock verification
• End-to-end testing (if applicable)
• Support grid synchronization and energization activities.

Grid Code Compliance

• Ensure compliance with:
• National Grid Codes
• Utility interconnection requirements
• OEM protection requirements
• Implement fault ride-through (FRT) and grid support protection functions.

Documentation & Reporting

• Prepare and review:
• Protection setting files
• Test reports and commissioning records
• As-built protection drawings
• Support handover documentation to O&M teams.

Coordination & Interface Management

• Coordinate with:
• Electrical design engineers
• SCADA & control engineers
• Turbine OEMs
• EPC contractors
• Utility/grid operators

Skills & Tools Required

• Strong knowledge of power system protection principles
• Hands-on experience with numerical relays
• Proficiency in ETAP / PowerFactory
• Understanding of wind turbine control & protection interfaces
• Familiarity with IEC / IEEE standards
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills

Typical Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering
• 5–10 years’ experience in power generation or renewable energy projects
• Prior experience in wind or solar power plants is highly preferred

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person