New Construction Commissioning Services
About the Facility
PowerSouth Energy Cooperative was formed in 1941 to provide the power supply needs of its distribution members across Alabama and northwest Florida. Today, PowerSouth continues to safely deliver reliable, competitively priced wholesale energy to promote development of the communities its members serve. PowerSouth has been expanding its corporate headquarters in Andalusia, AL, including a new Energy Control Center (ECC). The ECC is a two-story, 47,000 square foot data center housing offices, computer systems and associated equipment involved in the utility distribution to all PowerSouth customers. In addition, PowerSouth wanted to construct a “Bunker” to ensure resiliency of the systems due to a natural disaster or human threat.
AT A GLANCE
PowerSouth Facts
36k Expense Saved During Testing
47k Square Feet
2017 Year Completed
SEA is Commissioning Authority
Time was of the essence; therefore, the project was delivered using a design/build delivery method. Because the project team was already engaged in the process when the decision to hire a commissioning authority occured, Sain Engineering Associates, Inc. (SEA) interfaced seamlessly into the project conducting design review, construction observations and developing a commissioning plan with zero impact to the existing schedule.
The nature of the facility required in-depth testing of all complex electrical systems consisting of a Power Distribution Unit, automatic transfer switch, static transfer and UPS system. In addition, load testing of the fire suppression, HVAC systems and generators occurred.
SEA was able to resolve the following challenges:
Fire Suppression Systems: Proposed alternative testing similation of tanks to avoid $36,000 refill costs and ensure NFPA code requirements were met
Load Bank Testing: SEA completed a 1.1 megawatt load test on each generator as well as the UPS system and power distribution units, resolving problems prior to owner occupancy
Electrical Swithgear: Coordinated efforts between the DB team and switchgear manufacturer to resolve gear transfer sequence issues
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