Wind Farm Interconnection and Substation - Illinois

Jul 14

Power | Substation | Renewable Energy | Wind Farm | Illinois

Project Summary

This project is a 200MV wind farm project in Central Illinois that brings significant economic and environmental returns to the region. Consisting of 50 wind turbines, the farm is expected to start providing power in late 2022. Aldridge was the contractor for the installation of a new interconnect switchyard and collection substation. The two substations, while on the same site, were designed to different specifications as they have different end users. One unique aspect is that the interconnect is a 3-breaker switchyard, which consists of three 345kV circuit breakers. Aldridge performed civil foundations, underground electrical work, steel erection, and equipment setting.

Sandy and wet soil conditions were a challenge while drilling for foundations. Permanent casings were used to prevent cave-ins and ensure that we maintained schedule certainty. Aldridge used BIM at project start-up to develop a 3D model allowing our crews to install foundations within precise tolerances. In addition to the 250 piers, the model provides accurate layouts for conduit runs, cable troughs, and the ground grid. The model was also used by our PreFab team to build the large PVC conduit bends offsite and ship them to the job for installation. The bus components were also preassembled by the PreFab team for efficient installation.