INNOVATION July-August 2012

Yukon Correctional Centre –Whitehorse This new correctional centre comprises a three-storey facility for the confinement and treatment of inmates. It includes provisions for a diverse inmate population, numerous programs and shared resources. The modern electrical systems include full emergency power backup, energy efficient lighting, and a sophisticated security system to allow staff and inmates to interact in a safe environment. Many factors were accounted for including the local seasonal variations, use of local labour, and power availability. Unique design features accommodate local culture and male and female populations, and provide increased surveillance and control for the corrections staff. With the improved communications infrastructure, the centre will be able to expand its range of services to the inmates, staff and the community. Engineering consulting services for the electrical systems were provided by Genivar and REI Consulting Services.

Solar Photovoltaic System BC Hydro is partnering with BCIT to develop Canada’s first third generation Smart Microgrid Infrastructure on campus. The Solar Photovoltaic system is the latest addition to the BCIT/BC Hydro Smart Microgrid initiative. The mounting ballasted system is the first of its kind in Metro Vancouver. The system is installed on the roof of the new Gateway building and incorporates an 11.4 kW Solar PV system consisting of 84 solar modules and three grid-tied inverters. The system provides integration solutions for alternative sources of energy with the electricity grid, and also helps qualify the building as LEED Gold. Data

from the system will be used for ongoing research activities by BCIT and its partners in the NSERC funded Smart Microgrid Strategic Network. System Design: Giuseppe Stanciulescu PEng (BC Hydro OCTO), Dr Hassan Farhangi PEng SM-IEEE (BCIT). Electrical Design: Minoo Shariat PEng (BCIT). Structural: Bush, Bohlman & Partners.

Fraser River Crossing Tower and Conductors When BC Hydro’s 230 kV transmission line fell into the Fraser River due to bank erosion, sections of the city of Surrey lost power. Power was temporarily rerouted and restored. Emergency design, replacement tower fabrication, special 3M conductor and crossing construction were required. Time didn’t allow for normal design and supply, which typically takes 8-12 months; the new 93 m tower was one previously designed by the US Bonneville Power Administration and modified for BC Hydro’s system. Extreme wind, ice and other critical structural loading was verified and provided by Stantec Consulting. Supplied within five weeks by SAE Towers, the tower was erected and conductor strung by Allteck Line Contractors and placed into service within four months on December 9, 2011. Owner and concept design: BC Hydro. EPCM Services: Stantec Consulting. Tower Fabrication and Detailing: SAE Towers, QB Fabrication & Welding. Special Conductor: 3M. Construction prime contractor: Allteck Line Contractors.

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