Our team provided engineer-procure-construct services for a 65-MWdc/50-MWac solar project and a 34.5-kV to 69-kV interconnection substation.
The site utilizes 440-watt First Solar thin-film modules in conjunction with a single-axis tracking system. The interconnecting substation design incorporated a future utility upgrade to the generating voltages, approximately 12 months after commercial operation date, as the existing 69-kV transmission line will upgrade to a 138-kV transmission line.
The collaboration between our engineering and self-perform construction teams helped optimize the site and find innovative solutions as challenges arose. One such solution involved a water pump that needed power. The project team worked with the owner, landowner and distribution service provider to take an existing overhead power line underground, a rerouting that optimizes the solar arrangement for maximum performance.
The project peaked with over 250 craft construction professionals on-site and was completed with zero safety recordables or lost time incidents.
The project — honored with a Pyramid Award during the Excellence in Construction Awards presented by Associated Builders and Contractors — will provide clean energy to more than 25,000 residences.