This emergency generator replacement project is for the two main 1,500 kW high voltage generators supporting the water pumping operations at the city's largest pump facility, Ridgeview Pump Station.
Tom Eldred d/b/a Energy & Engineering Solutions has provided designs for generator replacements at more than ten other city facilities, including the low voltage backup generator at Ridgeview Pump Station. Tom Eldred is qualified in high voltage design, is familiar with the electrical systems at Ridgeview and the city's SCADA system, and as a former engineer with TXU is familiar with the interconnection agreements with CoServ, which provides electric service to the station.
The generators are at the end of their 20 year life. If this expenditure is not approved, Facilities will not have a design to bid their replacement. Maintenance costs will increase and potential generator failures could cause the pumping operations to be vulnerable to a power outage without backup. Staff feels the proposal of $93,913 is fair and reasonable for a project estimated to cost $3.5M.
Staff recommends awarding an Engineering Professional Services Agreement to Tom Eldred d/b/a Energy & Engineering Solutions for Emergency Backstand Power System Replacement at Ridgeview Pump Station in the amount of $93,913 as in the best interests of the City.