In this paper, the problems encountered in system voltages for a fast growi
ng utility, i.e, the Ministry of Electricity and Water of the Sultanate of
Oman in the Arabian Gulf are discussed. The utility has mostly air-conditio
ning load in the summer and the system encountered voltage stability proble
ms during peak summer conditions. The paper presents a detailed discussion
on recommendations proposed to remedy the voltage problems. The most critic
al period for voltage problems during summer days and its effect on remote
load buses in terms of voltage profile is discussed. System wide weak volta
ge buses have been identified. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights re
served.