DPL faced limitations in their existing transmission infrastructure that hindered:
Grid Modernization: Existing poles couldn’t accommodate a new capacitor bank, a crucial component for regulating voltage and improving grid efficiency.
Future Expansion: The current pole configuration at the Point of Interconnection (POI) restricted the installation of a perpendicular tap, limiting future grid connections.
Increased Capacity: Existing poles lacked the strength and size to support a heavier, three-phase regulator bank needed for enhanced voltage regulation.
Action
DST Engineers undertook a strategic replacement of seven (7) key transmission poles:
Capacitor Bank Support: Three poles were replaced with taller poles, each with a minimum height of 75 feet, to accommodate the new capacitor bank. Additionally, two adjacent poles were replaced to mitigate potential uplift concerns.
Improved POI Accessibility: A pole at the POI was upgraded to a higher class and strategically lifted at least five feet to create space for a perpendicular tap.
Regulator Bank Accommodation: Three poles supporting a regulator bank were replaced with taller, 75-foot minimum poles to allow for the installation of a threephase regulator bank.
PLS-CADD analysis validated the poles’ ability to support the regulator bank and maintain stability under operational conditions.
DST Value Addition
Plan & Profile Drawings: Visual representations of pole replacements and upgrades, ensuring design clarity and implementation accuracy.
Pole Data Sheets: Detailed specifications and capacities for each pole, confirming the integrity and suitability of the infrastructure.
Structure Assembly Drawings: Drawings outlining the assembly of new poles, capacitor bank, and regulator bank for proper installation.
Hardware Assembly Drawings: Illustrations of hardware components like connectors and support structures necessary for installation.
Bill of Materials: A list of required materials for accurate cost estimation, procurement, and planning.
Construction Staking Drawings: Drawings marking pole locations and adjustments to guide installation, ensuring compliance with design specifications.
DST Value Addition
DST provided data, maps, charts, and calculations in a format easily accessible by ComEd.
DST successfully identified necessary grid upgrades and provided cost estimates for DER integration.
Throughout this program, DST ensured smooth communication and documentation, meeting regulatory and technical requirements for DER interconnection.
