Overview:

In this episode of PTR Perspective, Saqib Saeed sits down with Saifa Khalid, Senior Manager leading PTR’s Power Grid research practice, to discuss the evolving landscape of grid technologies and market research. With nearly a decade of experience shaping PTR’s power grid analysis, Saifa shares how her team builds market models that capture the interplay of technology, regulation, and investment, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how complex research requests are scoped and delivered with transparency. From navigating fragmented markets like low-voltage switchgear to assessing policy-driven shifts such as the EU’s SF₆ ban, she explains the methodologies that turn data into actionable insights. The conversation also explores the critical role of primary research, expert validation, and storytelling in making sense of market forecasts. Looking ahead, Saifa highlights virtualization as a transformative trend set to redefine grid control and power system evolution. Whether you’re a utility, OEM, or energy strategist, this episode offers a rare window into the research foundations guiding the future of the power grid.

Speakers

Saifa Khalid // Senior Analyst at PTR Inc.

Saifa Khalid serves as Senior Analyst at PTR Inc. Her main area of interest is power systems. Currently, she leads the power grid research team in developing PTR’s syndicated power grid services and manages custom research projects for Fortune 500 clients globally. The topics under her mandate include HV switchgear, MV switchgear, power transformers and distribution transformers. With a background in Electrical Engineering, Saifa brings technical proficiency to her role, ensuring impactful solutions in the dynamic realm of power systems.

Saqib Saeed // Chief Product Officer – PTR Inc.

Saqib is a highly accomplished market research professional and a data storyteller in the international energy industry. With over a decade of experience in the field, he currently serves as the Chief Product Officer at PTR Inc. His expertise lies in the power grid and e-mobility equipment sectors. Saqib has overseen numerous global market research studies throughout his career and provided valuable insights to key decision-makers at various Fortune 500 companies. He is a member of the editorial board for Transformers Magazine and a member of the Advisory board of CWIEME Berlin and Middle East Energy. In addition to his market research career, Saqib has worked as an Electrical Engineer in the manufacturing sector.