Client Challenge
In an initiative to improve area reliability on the local distribution system, our client commissioned this substation upgrade project to support a new 34kV distribution feeder out of an existing 115kV switching station. This new feeder allowed an existing distribution circuit to be sectionalized, thus reducing the overall circuit length. Tie capability was also added for additional reliability and maintenance flexibility.
Before this project, this substation consisted of a 115kV three (3) breaker ring bus, initially constructed in 2014 to support utility interconnection of wind generation. It abuts a customer-owned collector substation. To establish the new 34kV distribution circuit, a new 115/34kV power transformer, and a 34kV distribution bay structure were installed.
A new 115kV circuit breaker was installed within the existing ring bus to support the additional node, along with a new 34kV circuit breaker in the distribution bay structure to protect the outgoing circuit. New disconnect switches, CCVTs, other ancillary equipment, and supporting structures and foundations were also added to support this project.
The new 34kV circuit exits the station underground and is routed to a new manhole outside the fence. It then continues to a riser pole, which connects to the aerial distribution system. Supporting protection and control upgrades were also required for this project, including three (3) new relay cabinets and modifications to multiple existing relay cabinets
How We Helped
SGC provided the Owner’s Engineering and Engineering Coordinator services for this project, which included reviewing all aspects of the detailed engineering design for accuracy, suitability, and conformance to the client’s standards. SGC also assisted the client with internal coordination items such as outage sequencing & development, project scheduling & resource planning, document management, procurement support, and relay database updates; SGC also prepared the remote end relay settings required for this project and provided site support during construction. SGC also supplied high-voltage testing and commissioning services for the project.
Powerful Results
SGC supported all technical aspects of the project and provided several value-added services that contributed to the project’s successful completion. Due to SGC’s familiarity with the client, several aspects of the project could be executed with limited burden on internal client resources. The project team faced many challenges during the project's construction phase that required close collaboration with multiple project stakeholders and prompt resolution. Some obstacles included significant equipment issues and, most notably, construction during the COVID-19 pandemic. Our successful collaboration with all project stakeholders was critical in overcoming these challenges.
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