About us – Middle East

Ricardo Echeverri Martinez

Senior Power Systems Consultant

PhD (Hons), MSc EE, Bach EE

Ricardo is a Senior Power Systems Consultant at Blake Clough, where he has worked on a broad range of power system studies in the UK, including load flow, electrical design, short circuit studies, protection coordination, Arc Flash, harmonic analysis, EMT, and transient studies. He specializes in Grid Code compliance, ENA G99, and international standards. Ricardo has extensive experience with power system simulations using DIgSILENT Power Factory, PSCAD, and Elek.

Previously a Project Engineer, Ricardo holds a PhD and MSc in Electrical Engineering. He is a self-motivated professional with over 10 years of experience in electrical transmission, distribution systems and R&D. During his Doctoral degree, Ricardo proposed a methodology to support decision making in the planning, design and operation of Smart Grid Projects. Also, he has researched a number of high-profile projects with different technologies (Solar PV, BESS, Wind and Synchronous machines) both on grid and off-grid with The Valley University (Colombia), University of Sevilla (Spain) and with the National Institute of Electricity and Clean Energies (México).

Prior to joining Blake Clough, Ricardo was an Electrical Engineer HV Design at GERS LLC (Colombia and USA). Some of his activities include AIS/GIS HV-LV substation design, overhead transmission line, (HV/LV) cable sizing, protection VT/CT calculation, insulation coordination, underground cable ducting design, earthing study and design, switchgear building technical specification, overall schematics, trenching layouts, lightning protection systems design for complex hybrid and utility scale projects.

He has also worked as a Power System Engineer at DNV Australia-Power Grids. Carry out Protection Coordination Studies, Short Circuit Study, Arc-Flash Hazard Analysis and Load Flow Studies.

Sohail Mian

Power Systems Director

BEng, MSc, PhD, MIET

Sohail is leading the Power Systems department within Blake Clough Consulting managing a large team of power systems engineers. This includes the delivery and management of a broad range of complex power system studies including the full grid code compliance studies required for major Transmission and Distribution connected renewable energy projects.

Through delivery of many of these complex power system studies Sohail has developed an expert understanding of the GB grid code and G99 engineering recommendations and is able to undertake studies within a variety of software packages including DIgSILENT, ETAP, PSSE, and IPSA, NEPLAN.

Sohail has a BEng in Mechanical Engineering, MSc in Petroleum Engineering and PhD in Control and Power investigating converter topologies and the subsequent design of their control systems for integrating energy storage systems to the grid.

He is also currently a contributing member of the CIGRE working group for the Feasibility study and application of electric energy storage systems embedded in HVDC systems.

Andrés Calvache

Senior Power Systems Consultant

BSc, MSc

Andrés Felipe is a senior power system engineer at Blake Clough Consulting. As part of his experience at Blake Clough Consulting, Andrés has participated in connection studies for BESS and PV solar projects ranging from 15 MW to 100 MW; he also has been involved in optioneering analysis for the connection of energy storage facilities to the distribution and electricity transmission system in the UK.  

Before joining Blake Clough, he was a technical office engineer at Compañia Energetica de Occidente (a Colombian DNO). His extensive expertise encompasses high-voltage and high-power testing, power systems design and analysis, electrical design audit for DNOs, substation construction audit, technical standardisation, asset management, reliability-centred maintenance, and predictive maintenance techniques for electrical assets.

Andres is a seasoned electrical engineer with a wealth of practical knowledge in the design and technical audit of HV substations and overhead line projects. His proficiency extends to specialised software such as AutoCAD, Power Factory, and PSCAD, which he adeptly applies in planning and analysing power systems projects.

Holding a BSc and MSc in electrical engineering, Andrés is a dynamic, self-motivated and well-organised professional. He has had experience in electrical transmission and distribution projects planning and construction, power equipment testing, and design and analysis studies for power systems.

From 2018 to 2020, he was responsible for the technical department of IMP Ingeniería; He was in charge of power quality studies, earth and grounding resistance measurement, thermographic survey for electrical installations, LV and MV electrical design, load flow, arc flash hazard and short-circuit studies. From 2013 to 2018, he worked with the Universidad del Valle as a research assistant and technical consultant for projects related to short-circuit withstand capability in distribution transformers, feasibility and basic engineering specifications for high-voltage and high-power test laboratories.From 2011 to 2013, he was a project engineer for Sucroal, a chemical and biotechnological company; he led the construction and commissioning of the electrical facilities for a new water waste treatment plant. 

Hussain Shiraz

Power Systems Engineer

BE

Hussain Shiraz is a Power Systems Engineer within Blake Clough, with a strong academic background, having achieved a high score in his Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering. As a Power System Team Lead at Blake Clough Consulting, he specializes in delivering comprehensive power system studies, with a focus on UK grid compliance and offshore wind projects. His expertise covers steady-state and dynamic analysis, including power flow, reactive power capability, short circuit, protection coordination, voltage control, and frequency response. He brings precision and depth to his role, consistently working within UK Grid Codes and Engineering Recommendations (such as G99, G74, G5/5, and G5/4). At Blake Clough, he has been instrumental in conducting PRE-FEED load flow studies, designing reactive compensation strategies, and analyzing harmonic impacts specifically for offshore wind farms. Additionally, his experience includes grid capacity assessments for potential renewable energy investments, including BESS, wind, and solar, ensuring project alignment with grid standards and future energy demands.

During his degree program, he led his group for the project of designing and feasibility analysis of a 236kW PV system installed at a garments factory in Pakistan. With 1 year of experience in power systems and energy, he has worked on different commercial and industrial projects in which he has performed multiple power system studies including protection coordination, short circuit and arc flash analysis in the US.

He was also associated with a Photovoltaic Consultancy in which he has worked on technical design and scrutiny of bidders of different solar projects in Pakistan.

Shahzaib Anjum

Power Systems Engineer

BSC,MSc

Shahzaib has joined Blake Clough as a Power Systems Engineer. At Blake Clough, he has worked on projects relating to the Pre-Feed Grid Code Compliance Study of 700MW Offshore Wind Farm as well as performing feasibility study on the World’s largest (40 GW) 100% renewable energy-based project.  He has also worked on EMT studies for many innovative projects at Blake Clough. Recently, he developed the Hybrid PPC capability in Powerfactory. He is also good in tuning controller parameters for grid code compliance studies.

Shahzaib holds a B.Sc. and M.Sc. degree in Electrical Engineering.  He has had experience in electrical transmission, operation, and planning sector.

Shahzaib has experience in PSSe, DIgSILENT PowerFactor and Matlab, as well as Python scripting and C++.  He has carried out load flow, contingency analysis and transient stability studies for the HV transmission network of Pakistan, as well as performing compliance studies for renewable generation plants.

Waqas Ahmed

Power Systems Engineer

BEng, MEM

Waqas has joined Blake Clough as a Power Systems Engineer. At Blake Clough, Waqas specialises in the design and optimization of substations, including cable sizing and configuration planning for various voltage levels. His expertise includes project reviews to enhance design efficiency and optioneering to determine the most effective substation configurations, considering both technical and commercial factors. He is proficient in creating layouts, single-line diagrams (SLDs), and other essential documentation for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and photovoltaic (PV) projects. His skill set also includes performing power system studies using industry-standard software for renewable energy systems. 

He also possesses expertise in cable de-rating analysis using standard software, cable route analysis and feasibility studies. He has done many substation design projects up to 400kV based in UK. 

Waqas holds a BEng in Electrical Engineering and a MEM in Energy Management. With over six years of experience in the renewable energy sector, he has specialized in PV and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) electrical design. His expertise spans the design and commissioning of integrated solar PV and BESS solutions, intelligent power management systems, control applications, and in-depth power system studies to enhance grid reliability and efficiency. 

Prior to joining Blake Clough, he served as an Assistant Manager of Applications at one of Pakistan’s leading EPC firms, where he played a key role in multiple BESS projects. He was responsible for overseeing design, feasibility analysis, and technical validation to support large-scale renewable energy integration. projects, overseeing both design and feasibility studies. He led his team to the successful completion of multiple BESS projects in Pakistan. 

Paras Khayyam Ahmed

Power Systems Engineer

M.Eng (Ongoing), B.Eng

Paras has joined Blake Clough as a Power Systems Engineer. At Blake Clough, Paras has worked on a range of projects, including BESS, PV and Onshore Wind, and has conducted various compliance studies for these systems. His has performed Load Flow, Fault Level, G5/5 Harmonics, Frequency Response, Voltage Response, FRT & FFFCI studies. Additionally, Paras has also worked on EMT modelling for different projects, particularly hybrid systems combining PV and BESS. He has also conducted EMT validation studies and TOV analyses.

Beyond technical studies, Paras has gained valuable experience in grid connection processes at Blake Clough, including Grid Connection Applications, Grid Capacity Scouting, Grid Feasibility Studies, and Due Diligence Reporting.

Paras is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Power Systems. With a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Paras gained professional experience as a Power Systems Engineer at AllumiaX LLC before joining Blake Clough.

In his previous role, he conducted comprehensive Power System Studies, including Load Flow, Short Circuit, Protection Coordination and Arc Flash Studies. Paras implemented these studies based on industry standards such as IEEE/ANSI, NFPA, and other state-specific codes, covering facilities such as Hospitals, Data Centers and Pump Stations. Additionally, Paras has a background as a Management Trainee in a textile factory, providing exposure to maintenance activities, electronics, instrumentation, and adherence to Health and Safety Standards in a manufacturing setting.

Paras is proficient in software tools such as ETAP, SKM, EasyPower, and programming languages such as MATLAB and C++.

Karim El Shafie

Business Development Executive

BSc

Karim has joined Blake Clough as a Business Development Executive. At Blake Clough, Karim manages Business Development and Finance. His strong analytical and reporting skills allow him to identify areas for improvement and enhance efficiencies across various aspects.

Karim holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration specialising in Accounting. He is a seasoned Business Development and Relationship Manager with 20 years of experience in the sector. Karim has a strong background in different business fields and has successfully identified and capitalised on numerous business opportunities, driving revenue growth and cost efficiencies. His expertise lies in building and nurturing client relationships and developing different strategies for business improvements.

Throughout his career, Karmin has demonstrated a passion for continuous learning, allowing him to adapt quickly to evolving market dynamics. His collaborative approach and ability to effectively communicate with stakeholders at all levels have earned him a reputation as a trusted consultant and reliable partner in driving business success.

Outside of work, Karim enjoys swimming and spending time with his family.

Sophia Syed

Power Systems Engineer

BS, MSc

Sophia has joined Blake Clough as a Power Systems Engineer. At Blake Clough, Sophia is dedicated to conducting grid code compliance studies, utilizing her analytical skills to ensure regulatory adherence. Additionally, she has significantly worked on curtailment analysis projects, contributing to large-scale solar, BESS, and wind projects. She remains committed to fostering clear communication within her team, ensuring that technical information is conveyed in an accessible and coherent manner.

Sophia holds a first-class Master’s degree in Renewable Energy Engineering from the University of Aberdeen and is recognized as a “British Council Women in STEM” scholarship awardee. Her academic journey focused on advancing sustainable practices, culminating in a thesis project evaluating energy islands for offshore energy integration.

With a solid foundation in Mechanical Engineering, Sophia gained three years of valuable experience in a public sector organization in Pakistan. She worked on various R&D projects, gaining expertise in data analysis, algorithm design and mathematical modelling. Proficient in programing languages such as MATLAB and python, she leverages technology for effective problem-solving. Sophia is passionate about spearheading the decarbonization of the energy sector through innovative solutions.

Beyond her professional pursuits, she finds solace and inspiration in the outdoors, often participating in activities such as hiking, and channels her creativity through the expressive medium of painting.

Rizwan Shahid

Junior Power Systems Engineer

BE

Rizwan is a Power Systems Engineer at Blake Clough Consulting, where he has contributed to a wide range of onshore wind, BESS, and solar energy projects. His work includes conducting Load Flow, Short Circuit, Harmonic, Dynamic Stability, Protection Coordination, Arc Flash, and Sub-Synchronous Oscillation (SSO) studies using industry-standard tools such as DIgSILENT PowerFactory and PSCAD.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from DHA Suffa University, graduating with a Gold Medal in August 2023 for his outstanding academic performance. Since then, Rizwan has gained international experience across projects in the US and UK, delivering power system studies using tools like ETAP, PowerFactory, SKM Power Tools, AutoCAD, and MATLAB/Simulink.

Sherif Khairy

Power Systems Engineer

BSC (Hons), MSc

Sherif has joined Blake Clough as a Power Systems Engineer. At Blake Clough, Sherif has worked on many Grid Code and G99 compliance projects, such as Bicker Fen and Walpole which consist of both Solar PV and BESS systems. He has also worked on the Centrica BESS system project. He has conducted many Power Systems studies, including Load flow and reactive power capability studies, fault level studies, G5/5 Harmonics assessment, P28 energization studies and flicker studies. Additionally, he has also experience in completing transmission applications and has contributed towards projects such as Crawcrof Lane,  Rooksbridge, Marston Vale and Patford Bridge. Working on design projects, Sherif has expertise in creating substation single line diagrams for optioneering reports, in order to compare different substation configurations from reliability, space and cost perspectives.

Previously, Sherif worked as an electrical power systems teaching assistant at the German International University in Cairo, Egypt. He holds a Batchelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Cairo University and is currently pursuing his MSc degree in Electrical Engineering, specifically around grid code requirements and the impact of grid-connection inverter-based renewable energy sources on the power network, using PSCAD/ EMTDC and MATLAB/SIMULINK. 

He is experienced in electrical design and studies for MV and LV distribution networks, substations and renewable energy projects.

Osama Anzar

Design Engineer

BE ME

Osama has joined Blake Clough as a Design Engineer. Osama has extensive experience in design and power system studies. At Blake Clough, he has carried out load flow and short circuit studies for new renewable energy connections. Osama has experience working on cable de-rating analysis and feasibility studies. Osama possesses expertise in HV/MV substation design, HV/MV cable sizing, HV/MV cable route analysis and assessment, as well as power system studies for power plants.

Osama is an accomplished Electrical Engineer with a strong academic background, having graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in 2018 and a Master’s degree in Energy Management in 2021 from the prestigious NED University of Engineering & Technology.

With a solid expertise in HV design engineering, Osama possesses in-depth knowledge of substation design up to 500kV and renewable energy design, including Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), Solar, and Wind power plants up to GW scale.

Throughout his career, Osama has been involved in numerous high-voltage design projects, encompassing substations and renewable power plants across diverse regions, including the Middle East, Central Asia, Philippines, Pakistan, Morocco, Vietnam, Chile, and the UK.

Faiq Hayat

Power Systems Engineer

B.E.

Faiq has joined Blake Clough as a Power Systems Engineer. At Blake Clough, Faiq has worked on various projects includes LAC, Statera-Exeter BESS, Woburn and Sundon BESS.  In his recent projects at Blake Clough, he was involved in performing Load Flow Analysis, Short Circuit Studies, Harmonic Analysis, Dynamic Stability and Transient Recovery Voltage (TRV) Studies in compliance with G5/4, G5/5, G99 and Grid Code standards. 

Faiq previously worked as a Power Systems Design Engineer at Siemens, specializing in the modelling and analysis of 500/220/132/33/11/0.4 kV electrical networks. He has expertise in short circuit studies, equipment evaluations, and protective device coordination for various projects. Faiq is experienced in client engagement, technical report preparation, and contributing to R&D in industrial and commercial sectors.  

Additionally, he has prior experience in Control, Protection, and Automation, including testing and commissioning of a 500/220kV KKI grid station and a 150MW Scatec Solar Plant in Pakistan. His role involved managing Factory and Site Acceptance Tests, relay programming, and designing and commissioning SCADA systems (PRP network) aligned with IEC 61850 protocols. 

Faiq holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from NED University of Engineering & Technology, Karachi, with a CGPA equivalent of a first-class degree.  Outside of work, he enjoys playing football and exploring the world. 

Victor Mulimakwenda

Power Systems Consultant

MSc,BEng (Hons)

Victor has joined Blake Clough as a Senior Power Systems Consultant. At Blake Clough, Victor has worked on a diverse range of projects within grid consulting consulting and integration of renewable energy into the networks and leverages his experience delivering high quality work and fostering relationships with clients. Victor has been focusing more on assisting clients navigate issues with the DNO’s and TO’s impacting project deliverability due to the uncertainty with the changing GB Connections landscape. Additionally, Victor has been delivering feasibility studies, connection offer due diligence, CP2030 work, Independent Connections Provider (ICP) estimates and a diverse range of bespoke work. 

Victor holds a BSc in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and an MSc in Finance and Investment from Sheffield Hallam University. During the MSc course, Victor received the Hentons Prize awarded for the highest overall mark on the course as well as a nomination for Inspirational Student Award. 

He is a dynamic and motivated professional with a proven track record of delivering strategic solutions and driving business growth for a diverse client base within the Great Britain renewable energy sector. 

Victor has 3 years of experience working on a range of grid connection projects, regularly advising developers on grid connection strategies, project construction timescales and costs for both distribution and transmission connections for onshore wind, solar PV, Battery Energy Storage Systems, and hybrid systems. Additionally, he has participated in, and led meetings with Distribution Network Operations (DNOs), National Grid Electricity System Operator (NGESO), and Transmission Network Owners (TOs) on behalf of developers at various project stages to discuss grid connection options and strategies to find the least-cost, technically acceptable connection designs. Recently, Victor has been focusing on helping developers understand the various grid reforms and how these may affect project deliverability. 

Outside of work, Victor enjoys listening to music, going to the gym, and playing basketball, football and badminton.