09-25-2017 BPU RPT 07 - Laserfiche WebLink

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RIVERSIDE PUBLIC UTILITIES Board Memorandum BOARD OF PUBLIC UTILITIESDATE: SEPTEMBER 25, 2017 ITEM NO: 7 SUBJECT:4kV TO 12kV CONVERSION PROGRAM STATUS REPORT ISSUE: Receive and file thisstatus report on the 4kV to 12kV Conversion Program. RECOMMENDATION: That the Board of Public Utilities receive and file the status report on the 4kV to 12kV Conversion Program,upgrading aging 4kV distribution facilities to a modern 12kV distribution system. BACKGROUND: The energy delivery system in Riverside was originally designed arounda 33kV sub-transmission and 4kV distribution system. Over the years, this standard was revised to a modern 69kV sub-transmission and 12kV distribution system. Riverside Public Utilities (RPU) has gradually migrated to the new voltage standard of 69kV and 12kV over time. These voltage conversion projects are considered routine capital projects and discussion of these were included in the presentation made to the Board at the July 10, 2017. The Electric System Master Plan recommends the conversion of all aging 4kV distribution facilities to a modern 12kV distribution system to improve circuit reliability, safety, and outage restoration time. 4kV distribution facilitiesare made up of components that are obsolete, inefficient, and difficult to procure- especially during equipment failures and unexpected outages. The average age of these facilities is 50 years old, and the equipment isat or beyond its useful life. A typical voltage conversion project includes the replacement of all the facilities that make up the distribution systemincludingdeteriorated wooden poles, transformers, pole switches, cables and relatedelectrical distribution components. DISCUSSION: The purpose of the 4kV to 12kV Conversion Program is to upgrade existing 4kV aging facilities to a 12kV distribution system, which will include the implementation of advanced technology to monitor circuit loads and their impact on the system. Upgrading toa modern, standardized 12kV circuit will result in greater power capacity, reducedline losses, improved electric service and power quality, and improvedsystem operations using standardizedequipment. This modernizationeffort will help keep up with technology advancements and the increased demand for electricity. 12kV distribution circuits have approximately three times as much power capacity as 4kV circuits. 12kV circuits improve overall system efficiency when compared to 4kV circuits. 12kV circuits also increasevoltage stability, which is an important component for photovoltaic installations and large Page 35