When a nearby coal-fired generating station retired, the utility customer lost more than asource of power generation. The plant’s generators had also provided dynamic reactive power and voltage support that helped maintain grid stability.

Replacing Critical Voltage Support

The utility customer decided to install two 300 MVAr 138/15kV static VAR compensators (SVCs). SVCs provide fast, dynamic reactive power to help regulate transmission voltage and support grid stability during changing load conditions and system disturbances.

Creating a Safe Path for Construction

Beta worked closely with the customer to establish safe working boundaries within the energized substation and develop an approach for identifying existing underground infrastructure.

The team used hydrovac excavation around the perimeter of the new site to locate below-grade infrastructure before work began. This gave the customer and project team greater visibility into existing site conditions as they prepared for construction.

The investigation identified several retired pipelines, including large gas mains that were not shown on available drawings. The gas infrastructure was tested and properly removed before construction continued.

Overcoming Unexpected Below-Grade Conditions

Numerous below-grade obstructions were found while excavating for foundations. Rather than allowingthose discoveries to halt progress, Beta worked through the conditions as they emerged—removing and remediating the obstructions so construction could continue.All spoil from the project was tested and transported off site to approved disposal facilities, adding another layer of coordination to the construction effort.

Delivering the Completed SVC Installation

By investigating existing infrastructure before construction and addressing unforeseen underground conditions as theyarose, Beta helped the utility customer navigate the complexities of adding new SVC infrastructure within an energized brownfield substation.

The project demonstrates how early coordination, careful site investigation and an adaptable construction approach can help utilities manage the risks that come with upgrading existing energized facilities.