AltaLink Burns & McDonnell Provost Reliability Upgrades

Provost Reliability Upgrades

Provost Reliability Upgrades

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Provost Reliability Upgrades

Owner | AltaLink

Client’s Name | Burns and McDonnell (BMcD)

Location | Near Provost, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | June 2020 to April 2021, completed on time and on budget. The project took a total of 10 months to complete.

Market Sector | Utilities

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

ICONIC was contracted on a project that involved a 138 KV upgrade of four AltaLink substations (Provost, Hayter, Kilarney Lake and Edgerton). The goal was to provide alternate connection points to enhance system reliability.

ICONIC’s earthworks services were utilized at the Provost substation, where the elevation of surrounding terrain was preventing proper drainage flow.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

  • 138KV upgrade at Provost, Hayter, Kilarney Lake and Edgerton substations
  • Installation of foundation, structural steel, ground grid, control cable and protections
  • Earthwork (Provost site):
    • Setup and maintain ESC
    • Stripping and stockpiling topsoil
    • Supply, import, place, and pack engineered fill and aggregates
    • Supply and installation of geo grid and geo textiles
    • Culverts and site ditching
    • Fencing (supply and installation)

RESULT / SOLUTION

ICONIC executed 16,000 hrs on this project. Our team’s flexibility to reschedule work to match changing outage sequencing was critical to the project’s success. This was possible due our highly committed field crews, as well as our productive relationship with key players on this project. Despite the scheduling challenges, the facilities were all delivered on time, without incident.


Montana First Nation Solar Photovoltaic Facility

Solar Photovoltaic Facility

Solar Photovoltaic Facility

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Solar Photovoltaic Facility

Owner | Montana First Nation

Client’s Name | ATCO Electric

Location | Montana First Nation - south of Edmonton, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | Completed October 2020, on time and on budget

Market Sector | Renewable Energy, Solar

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

ICONIC was proud to be involved in the construction of one of the largest on-reserve solar farms – a 12,000 panel project on the Montana First Nation, one-hour south of Edmonton.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

ICONIC’s power distribution team was engaged to connect the solar farm to the grid. Connections were made to an existing Fortis overhead 25 kV system. Export of power was monitored via a padmount metering system. Control and communication of power was managed via SEL751A. SEL 2730U, SEL 2440 and SG-4260 relays. The only auxiliary power requirements for the project were in the E-house.

ICONIC’s civil activities were confined to trenching and backfill of all facilities related to the collector station. ICONIC supplied basic consumables for the project, along with sand and gravels for cable and precast vault placement.

The scope of work included:

  • Installation of two runs of 3x#1AL U/G cable and routing to the switch cubicle
  • Constructing two concrete vaults for the 25 kV switch cubicle and the padmount station service transformer
  • Copper ground grid around each concrete vault
  • 4-way 25 kV VFI equipped switch cubicle on concrete vault #1
  • Dress cables with 3M termination kits and terminate 6x#1 AL U/G cable from solar farm transformers to VFI bays 1 and 2
  • Terminate single phase cable to bay 3 of switch cubicle
  • Install 75 kVA 14.4 kV – 120/240 V single phase station service transformer on concrete vault 2
  • Terminate cabling from switch cubicle to primary of station service transformer
  • Install pre-commissioned 4.29 m x 5.5 m control building and ground grid
  • Engage with Fortis to terminate 25 kV cables from Fortis to Bay 1 of switch cubicle

RESULT / SOLUTION

The solar farm is now operational, is being hailed for the opportunities it will provide to the Montana First Nation, and is projected to generate annual revenues of $800,000. Revenue will be invested back into infrastructure on the First Nation’s territory, including the creation of a potential solar farm expansion. The Montana Nation is sharing its knowledge and experience with other first nations in Alberta and Saskatchewan.


Wellhead Crossfield Battery Energy Storage System

Crossfield Battery Energy Storage System

Crossfield Battery Energy Storage System

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Crossfield Battery Energy Storage System

Owner |

Client’s Name | Wellhead Electric (California, USA)

Location | Crossfield, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | March 2020 to December 2020, completed on time and on budget.

Market Sector | Renewable Energy, Battery Energy Storage

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

ICONIC was selected to handle infrastructure construction and deployment of the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) for Canada’s first hybrid electric gas turbine, located in Crossfield Alberta. The project feature GE’s proven BESS systems to provide ample operating reserves – while minimizing fuel usage and Green House Gas (GHG) emissions.

The battery technology needed to be integrated into existing LM 6000 generation facilities that were already in place. During the commissioning phase, it was established that a grounding transformer was required to mitigate HV surges. This extended the schedule by two months but was vital to the safety of the people and project assets.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

ICONIC was responsible for all installation, connection, pre-commissioning, commissioning, testing, inspection, post energization checks of the battery energy storage system. We followed GE’s detailed commissioning guidelines to ensure cells were balanced and in a safe operating state.

The BESS area pad was developed and built up to ensure proper slope and drainage. High water tables and pooling were a concern. Helical piling was determined to be the ideal solution to anchor the equipment in the existing soil conditions and to mitigate frost heave. Steel grillages were utilized to simplify the equipment connections to piling and to equipment.

Battery Energy Storage System installation scope:

  • Ground grid and testing
  • Underground & above ground conduit
  • Setting grillage onto piles
  • Cable trays installation
  • LV (<600V) power cable installation and termination
  • Instrumentation, controls, communication cables
  • MV (13.8 KV) power cables
  • Battery enclosure (HPSU’s) setting and wiring
  • Install and commission isolation and aux transformers
  • Install and commission switchgear
  • Strut supports installation
  • Cable, termination kits, load break elbows, terminals, conduit, cable tray, surge arresters

Earthworks scope:

  • Pad expansion
  • Screw pile installation
  • Trenching and backfill
  • Conduit installation
  • Fencing
  • Insulating gravel install
  • Asphalt paving

RESULT / SOLUTION

Lonnie Enns, Senior Vice President of ENMAX energy said this project reflects the transformation taking place in Canada’s energy sector, and the adoption of new and innovative solutions.

“Battery storage, combined with on-site natural gas generation provides a reliable, cost effective and sustainable method of ensuring on-demand energy. Not only will this project enable significant greenhouse gas emissions reductions, it will also provide a blueprint for further adoption in cold weather environments globally.”

ICONIC is honoured to be at forefront of BESS technology, and ensuring the required infrastructure is built to the highest safety and quality control standards.


AltaLink Conrad Transformer

Conrad Transformer Addition

Conrad Transformer Addition

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Conrad Transformer Addition

Owner | AltaLink

Client’s Name | AltaLink

Location | Near Wrentham, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | September 2018 to August 2019, completed on time. The project took a total of 8 months to complete, as there was a project lull over the winter months.

Market Sector | Utilities

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

The project scope for the Conrad substation includes installing a new transformer and switchgear and control building combo at Conrad 135s substation.

ICONIC was contracted to upgrade the Conrad substation. The objective was to provide enhanced reliability to the Fortis 25 KV distribution system in the greater Wrentham area. The work required the installation of a new transformer, switchgear and control building combo. Due to the age of the station, there was some uncertainty as to the accuracy of the previously recorded drawings. This posed ongoing challenges to the engineering team.

The single biggest project constraint was the limited availability of outages. The site was on a radial feed on the 138 KV system – leaving a small window of opportunity for outages until the new transformer could be installed as a redundant feed. To further complicate this project, all work needed to proceed with extreme care due to the nesting birds in the area. On top of that, there were issues with manufacturer lead times on the 138 KV and 25 KV switches.

The combination of these challenges, along with winter construction, threatened to set the project back.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

Initially, ICONIC’s project scope was limited to the installation, connection and commissioning of all power system upgrades. This was expanded to include civil services on the pad expansion, as ICONIC was able to demonstrate how we could complete the work more efficiently, without cutting corners. The scope included:

  • Expansion of the existing station pad
  • Installation a new 138/25 KV LTC transformer with a 25 KV switchgear
  • The addition of the Fortis AMI was added to ICONIC’s scope
  • Installation of two (2) new 138 KV breakers for the new and existing transformer
  • One (1) new 7-cell switchgear building with two new feeders
  • Salvage existing 25 KV feeder

RESULT / SOLUTION

This was a project that put ICONIC’s problem-solving abilities to the test. AltaLink’s Project Manager was approachable, easy to coordinate with, and extremely open to solutions.

AltaLink’s flexibility to allow us to execute the project outside of winter months led to better cost control. Defined outage planning ensured that key scopes were completed in a timely manner. To work around procurement delays, arrangements were made to purchase units from AltaLink’s emergency stores until the equipment procured by ICONIC arrived. We were also able to propose alternate material solutions to achieve ISD dates.

ICONIC was able to truly add value to this project by offering up the services of our newly formed earthworks team. We were able to stage portions of the project to aid in electrical execution without the change orders that you would see from an external civil entity. This resulted in a better final product – with no escalated costs to the client.

Finally, we closely monitored the surrounding area to identify and avoid active nesting sites.

Despite the challenges on this project, there were no significant incidents or lost time issues on this project. Regular one-on-one meetings with the client allowed us to maintain progress and arrive at the best path forward.


ABB Peace Canyon Substation

Peace Canyon Substation

Peace Canyon Substation

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Peace Canyon Substation

Owner | BC Hydro

Client’s Name | ABB

Location | Hudson Hope, BC

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | September 2018 to November 2019. The project was completed within 14 months and on time.

Market Sector | Utilities

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

BC Hydro needed to expand its existing 500 KV Peace Canyon substation facility so it could be interconnected to the new Site C Dam Project.

The project involved four major construction companies, which required extensive coordination, communication and collaboration. ICONIC had to demonstrate that our crews met British Columbia’s extensive training and orientation requirements, and that all equipment adhered to provincial standards and specifications (which vary slightly from those in Alberta).

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

Initially, ICONIC was responsible for the distribution work. While the absence of an initial site visit made it difficult to account for all factors that would impact the scope, regular one-on-one meetings with ABB provided an opportunity to discuss project concerns and determine the best path forward. Procedures were clearly communicated post-award.

After the project commenced, several of the earthworks components associated with the substation were removed from original civil contractor’s scope and assumed by ICONIC. This helped to streamline construction on key project deliverables that required close integration. It also resulted in cost efficiencies for the client.

Electrical scope of work:

  • Installation of new 500 KV gantries, bus work and cabling
  • Addition of 500 KV breakers and isolated bus to the existing 500 KV GIS system
  • Installation all electrical work, including:
    • Signage
    • Lightning protection
    • Grounding equipment and bonding

Earthworks scope of work:

  • Excavate for ground grid install
  • Increase pad size along existing pad perimeter
  • Removal of spoils
  • Installation of insulating gravel

RESULT / SOLUTION

The cumulative experience ICONIC brought to this project allowed us to deliver a fully functional installation safely, and on time. To ensure we were able to complete all required work during the outages and meet the ISD timelines, ICONIC proposed the gradual replacement of crew members on cross-shifts. By avoiding a massive crew change, we were able to ensure greater continuity between shifts.


ENEL Riverview Substation

Riverview Windfarm Substation

Riverview Windfarm Substation

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Riverview Windfarm Substation

Owner |

Client’s Name | ENEL

Location | Pincher Creek, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | July 2019 to November 2019. Completed on time and on budget.

Market Sector | Renewable Energy, Wind

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

As part of Alberta’s Renewable Energy Program, Enel Green Power North America Inc. built two projects just outside of Pincher Creek, Alberta: a 115 MW wind farm and a 31MW wind farm.

ICONIC was contracted to design, procure, construct, and commission the River¬view Substation and the CRII expansion projects. It was a multifaceted project that provided ICONIC’s team the ability to shine. As one would expect at a site selected for wind power, frequent gusts required a professional construction and power team that could be counted on to safely execute this project in challenging conditions.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

The work involved concurrent work by multiple teams on the two project sites. ICONIC’s construction and electrical crews worked in close collaboration to allow for smooth hand-offs, made possible by our high standards of quality control.

A. CRR2-EPC

This project component involved the addition of one feeder and protections to existing SWGR. The scope of work included:

  • Installation and Commissioning of Metering and GRT tanks
  • Installation of below grade cables and conduits
  • 35KV Power Cable installation, termination and PD testing
  • Terminations consisted of 3m and Elastimold kits
  • Installation of revenue metering PT’s
  • Installation and Commissioning of new Scada and RTAC systems
  • Installation and Commissioning of new revenue meters on existing feeders
  • Client Energization support

B. Riverview Greenfield Facility

This new 240 Kv facility would be tapping off the AltaLink Castle Rock Ridge facility. The scope of work involved:

  • Station pad construction
  • Installation and testing of station ground grid
  • Foundation installation
  • Installation of GRT Tank’s
  • Installation and Commissioning of new 240KV switches and CT’s
  • Installation of 35KV bus work
  • Installation of transformer containment
  • Installation of below grade cables and conduits
  • Assist transformer OEM with assembly activities
  • Installation and Commissioning of 35KV cap bank
  • 35KV power cable installation. Termination and PD testing
  • Terminations consisted of 3M, Elastimold and Pfis¬ter kits
  • Installation and Commissioning of SCADA systems
  • Commissioning of station protections including but not limited to feeder breaker controls

RESULT / SOLUTION

Both project components proceeded according to plan and schedule. Through ongoing communication and collaboration, ICONIC gave the client complete confidence that their project was being professionally managed and built to design. Project management best practices ensured our multiple teams, suppliers and contractors were working in unison.

Today, these facilities are playing a central role in helping Alberta businesses to meet the growing public demand for green generated energy. Construction was completed on-schedule, on-budget and with no safety incidents to report.


LRT Expansion W7B Duct Bank

LRT Expansion W7B Duct Bank

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  LRT Expansion W7B Duct Bank

Owner | EPCOR

Client’s Name | EPCOR

Location | Edmonton, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | Commenced in 2020 and was completed January 2021, on-time and on-budget

Market Sector | Utilities, LRT Expansion

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

As a part of the construction and expansions of Edmonton’s West LRT, EPCOR needed to update the aging utility infrastructure beneath 87th Avenue (between 156 Street and 170 Street). The duct bank replaced an existing alignment, which conflicted with the proposed LRT route. This utility relocation project involved several challenges:

  • Managing Covid-19 protocols on-site
  • An assertive project schedule – the utility relocation was a critical path item on the LRT extension schedule
  • Construction in a high-traffic, public environment that required a safe, secured worksite
  • Difficult ground conditions and tight workspaces required confined space entry, and precision earthworks to expose aging water infrastructure
  • Controlling traffic to allow road and business access
  • Coordination with multiple utilities, residents, and business owners

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

ICONIC was responsible for constructing a new 15-way concrete-encased duct bank. The project required multiple ICONIC crews working concurrently to provide approximately 2.5 km of excavation and construction. There were multiple utilities in unexpected locations, deep tie-in points, and some utility holes needed to be relocated due to poor ground conditions. This resulted in several alignment changes, revised engineering drawings, extensive hydrovacing and a need to work at increased depths.

ICONIC’s Earthworks team repaired sidewalks and roadways, as well as rebuilding and upgrading the excavated alleyways.

RESULT / SOLUTION

The complexities of this project required ICONIC’s construction crews to work very closely with EPCOR’s Inspectors and Projects Managers. We employed best practice Project Management methodologies and processes to communicate and conduct the proper project change control, including COVID-19 Pandemic accommodations.

EPCOR’s utilities were safely relocated, and the lines were successfully energized. ICONIC met the project schedule and City of Edmonton’s LRT expansion requirements. Due to the complexities of this project, including extremely deep shoring, fall protection, and other unique safety requirements, ICONIC had a dedicated safety supervisor present on-site at all-times to ensure the project’s safe and successful execution.


Watson Creek Substation

Watson Creek Substation

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Watson Creek Substation

Owner | Altalink

Client’s Name | Burns and McDonnell

Location | near Jasper, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | November 2019 to June 2019. The project was completed in 8 months and on time.

Market Sector | Utilities

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

This project was initiated to improve system reliability by interconnecting AltaLink and ATCO systems through a 138 KV to 69 KV connection via two transformers.

The single biggest challenge involved the confined workspace, which impacted our ability to stage and execute the deliverables to our usual degree of efficiency. In addition, the station expansion had to be meticulously coordinated to accommodate ATCO and Kinder Morgan outage availability.

Once on-site, we also discovered that the fill beneath the pad (constructed previous to our involvement) used aggregate that was larger than the AltaLink specification.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

There were extensive reporting and documentation requirements on this project. ICONIC’s rigorous project management processes allowed us to meet the client’s request for daily, weekly and monthly submittals. The scope included:

1. Watson Creek 104S expansion

  • Construction of 530L to an interconnection point with ATCO Electric’s 6L530
  • Installation of foundations, structures, protections, and cabling
  • Installation of two (2) 138/69 25 MVA auto transformers
  • Installation of circuit breakers, bus, motorized and manual disconnect switches, and motor operator addition
  • Commissioning and testing

2. Cold Creek 602S & Bickerdike 39S

  • Change relay settings
  • Addition of alternative group settings for a bypass switch close condition between 615L and 847L
  • Recommissioning as necessary

RESULT / SOLUTION

Due to the restricted space, the ICONIC team was required to change our standard processes – working sequentially rather than concurrently. The depth of our field staff allowed us to cross-shift, and quickly return to the baseline schedule. ICONIC’s earthworks operators and laborers pitched in to help us hit ISD.

Subcontractor management and communication was critical for the overall success of the project. ICONIC’s ability to adapt to any circumstances allowed us successfully complete this project on-time, with no significant incidents.


Chestermere Substation Construction

Chestermere Substation Construction

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Chestermere Substation Construction

Owner | AltaLink

Client’s Name | AltaLink

Location | Chestermere Lake, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | October 2017 to September 2018, completed on time and on budget. The project took a total of 10 months to complete, as there was a project lull over the winter months.

Market Sector | Utilities

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

This was a full EPC greenfield substation project located on the south side of Chestermere Lake. The goal was to bolster the reliability of the Fortis 25 KV distribution system in the greater Chestermere area. It was ICONIC’s first EPC turnkey project.

Because our work was going on at the same time as adjacent land and road development projects, coordinating site boundaries with the town of Chestermere was a challenge. The area adjacent to the project site was deemed a wetland. Extensive premobilization documentation and permitting was required to ensure the project started on schedule.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

This scope of work included all the engineering, the civil pad development and installation of three 138 kV breakers and two 138/25 kV transformers along with a couple ABB Modular substation on skids.

  • Engineering drawings and submissions
  • Procurement of materials
  • Pad construction
  • 138 KV transmission line tie-in
  • Installation of telecom tower
  • RAS system for the 138 KV interconnection
  • Alterations to remoted ends for the 138 KV power line
  • Installation of the AMI for Fortis

RESULT / SOLUTION

As ICONIC’s first foray into EPC, this project opened our eyes to the need for disciplined processes and strategies to manage essential project details. It led us to create a dedicated internal procurement team, and to devise step-by-step processes for reviewing and vetting engineering submittals prior to client submission. While standard procedure today, this was new to us at the time.

We are pleased to report our first EPC project was a success. Our team demonstrated the advantage of being able to draw on our extensive crew to meet ISD dates, and the importance of strong contractor relationships. Today, EPC work is second-nature to us.


Windrise Wind LP

Windrise Wind LP

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Windrise Wind LP

Owner |

Client’s Name | TransAlta

Location | 20km south of Fort Macleod, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | April 2020 to August 2021

Market Sector | Renewable Power, Wind

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

Iconic Power Systems was the substation constructor on this project. We connected to AltaLink’s existing Windy Flats 138 S substation (20 minutes south of Fort Macleod, Alberta) through a 138 KV transmission line.

The project consisted of 43 Wind Turbine Generators (WTG) with a total capacity of 207 MW, an underground collector system, a substation and a transmission line. The WTGs are Siemens-Gamesa Renewable Energy (SGRE) model SG 4.8-145 AM+3 – with 90 m hub height and 145 m rotor diameter. Each has a 4.8 MW capacity rating at 60 Hz.
The scope and complexity of this project required a substation contractor with experience in renewable energy systems who was at ease managing and executing the multiple construction and electrical components.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

ICONIC provided an integrated solution involving our Electric Utility, Distribution and Earthwork teams. The substation was to be located central to the Project, and include feeder entry breakers and disconnects, overhead bus¬es, a capacitor bank for reactive compensation, a single 230 MVA step-up transformer to 138 kV, HV metering and the transmission line breaker and disconnect. Protection, plant control and communication equipment were constructed within a modular rigid-frame steel control building located within the substation.

The scope of work included:

  • Procurement
  • Civil works, piling, earthworks, fencing
  • Grounding grid & underground conduit
  • Main transformer foundation & terminations
  • Structural work
  • Electrical work
  • Control building
  • Collector & Transmission line terminations
  • Testing & commissioning

RESULT / SOLUTION

Under ICONIC, the various project components came together like clockwork. This is reflective of our experience and familiarity working together as a consolidated unit. ICONIC’s established systems and processes enabled clear communication and efficient transitions between crews at all project stages. Over the course of a 16 month build that remained on time and on budget, there were zero safety incidents.


University District High Density Duct Bank

University District High Density Duct Bank

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  University District High Density Duct Bank

Owner | ENMAX (ICONIC's Customer & Owner of Infrastructure)

Client’s Name | University of Calgary Properties Group (Developer of Project)

Location | Calgary, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | Approx. 4 months of construction. Completed December 2019, on-time and on-budget.

Market Sector | Utilities

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

The University of Calgary Properties group was developing the Phase 4 area of the University District Commercial and Residential Development for ENMAX, SHAW, and Telus. Performing work on ENMAX infrastructure requires adhering to their high-density specifications, codes, and standards. This worksite also contained high alkaline soils and challenging ground conditions, requiring an appropriate disposal process and extra safety measures to prevent trench collapse.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

As an approved construction contractor under a Master Service Agreement (MSA) with ENMAX Power, ICONIC was intimately familiar with ENMAX’s rigorous expectations for safety, environmental and quality control processes and procedures. The scope of work included:

  • Trenching approximately 600 meters of concrete-encased duct bank
  • Installation of six precast utility holes
  • Installing additional connections and stub outs on private property and in roadways
  • Documenting safety requirements
  • Conducting hazard assessments
  • Coordinating traffic control and road closures
  • Disposal/ replacement of unsuitable fill

RESULT / SOLUTION

ICONIC worked closely with the prime contractor to ensure project scope was executed in a safe and timely manner. ICONIC’s well-established relationships with our subcontractors (including crane operators and hydrovac specialists) ensured no incidents or near misses.

The shoring and cutbacks were installed in deep trenching – exceeding standards as an extra precaution. In addition, ICONIC tested all concrete to our rigorous internal standards – exceeding ENMAX’s requirements, at no additional cost.

We provided ENMAX with ongoing updates on progress, site conditions, and risks via our comprehensive electronic daily field reports. Our ability to clearly communicate with multiple stakeholders, ensure high-density specification, and provide constructability feedback was critical to the success of this project. Installation was completed well ahead of the client’s schedule, despite the number of underground features and sandy ground conditions. There was no settling, re-work, or deficiencies to address.


WCSB Power eReserve-1

WCSB Power eReserve-1

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  WCSB Power eReserve-1

Owner | WCSB Power

Client’s Name | WCSB Power

Location | Rycroft, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | September 2020 to December 2020

Market Sector | Renewable Power, Battery Energy Storage

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

ICONIC has been awarded the construction of the eReserve1 Battery Storage project with WCSB Power. This is a 20-Megawatt capacity lithium-ion battery storage system, which will be used to store electricity for discharge into the local distribution system upon demand.

The eReserve1 project is based around TESLA’s Megapack Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The BESS system being leveraged improves the overall reliability of the Alberta Interconnected Electrical System. Renewable project owners such as WCSB Power require qualified construction and high voltage specialists who have the skills, expertise, and dedication to be at the forefront of renewable technology.

This site is in a remote area of northern Alberta that made it difficult to find suppliers. Excavators needed to be protected to avoid freezing overnight.

A low hanging powerline across the main access road required our team of supervisors to put their problem-solving skills to the test.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

ICONIC was awarded this project based on our renewable sector experience and our ability to provide an end-to-end high voltage, earthworks and reclamation solution utilizing our vast in-house resources. The project scope includes:

  • Installation of TESLA Megapack battery packs
  • Installation of cables, conduits, helical piles
  • Commissioning
  • Setup and maintenance of ESC
  • Construction of pads and structural steel
  • Stripping and stockpiling of topsoil
  • Supply, placement of engineered fill and aggregates
  • Construction of drainage systems, access road and fencing
  • Supply and installation of geogrid and geo textiles

RESULT / SOLUTION

ICONIC’s integrated service offering has streamlined the procurement, site development, construction, and reclamation process. This project was completed according to plan and schedule.

To access the substation and get equipment around the low hanging powerline, ICONIC had to come up with a quick workaround. Within three days of identifying the problem, ICONIC built an 800 m access road using rig mats. This set the project back a week, however the quick thinking allowed us to make up the time and keep construction on schedule.

This project has demonstrated the value that ICONIC’s integrated service offering brings to battery energy storage projects. We are incredibly proud of our role in facilitating innovation in renewable energy.


Overhead Distribution Construction, Burdett and Yellow Lake

Overhead Distribution Construction, Burdett and Yellow Lake

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Overhead Distribution Construction, Burdett and Yellow Lake

Owner | BluEarth

Client’s Name | PCL (acting GC)

Location | Burdett and Yellow Lake, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | Completed March 2021, on-time and on-budget

Market Sector | Renewable Energy, Solar

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

The Burdett and Yellow Lake, Solar Farm project is located in a remote area in southern Alberta. Connecting the solar farms to the Fortis electrical network required extensive strategic planning across a multi-staged timeline. ICONIC was responsible for procurement and installation of distribution lines, and for ensuring safe connection to the electrical network. The solar farm had many different contractors working at the same time, requiring efficient site coordination.

This project required ICONIC’s line crew to work near and tie into energized high voltage lines and energize the new distribution lines. This is difficult work in the best of conditions. However, extremely cold weather and strong winds made it especially challenging. ICONIC had to direct our crews to halt work for several days to ensure the safety and well-being of all on-site personnel.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

ICONIC’s meticulous coordination of all materials, procurement, workforce, and equipment staging resulted in an efficient, streamlined build. This project consisted of:

  • 15 overhead structures
  • 7 total switch structures
  • 6 laterals with extensive framing
  • Conductor installation
  • Interconnection to Fortis infrastructure
  • Line energizing

An ICONIC quality control team member was on-site full-time to inspect and test all installations and provide detailed testing and quality assurance of the installations.

ICONIC’s integrated team of Distribution, substations, and Earthworks specialists collaborated to efficiently deliver the multiple scopes of work. ICONIC’s project management, quality control, safety, and procurement processes were all instrumental to our success.

RESULT / SOLUTION

The Burdett and Yellow Lake Solar Farm project was completed on time and budget – built to the client’s specifications, without any incidents or near misses. A successful review of the bill of materials and drawings allowed for the procurement of a vast array of trained human resources, tools, materials, and equipment critical to complete the complex overhead installations.

As the project progressed, ICONIC quickly communicated any design or material issues to the client and their engineering consultants through documented change control and RFI process. ICONIC also provided the client with comprehensive Electronic Daily Field reports. This project is indicative of the level experience, expertise, and professionalism that ICONIC brings to all renewable energy projects.


Riverview Substation POD

Riverview Substation POD

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Riverview Substation POD

Owner |

Client’s Name | EPCOR

Location | Edmonton, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | January 2019 to January 2020, completed on-time and on-budget.

Market Sector | Utilities

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

Riverview is a greenfield 240/25kV substation in the City of Edmonton’s Riverview district. ICONIC was the Prime Contractor for substation civil work, and was responsible for substation electrical work including structural, electrical and commissioning.

The project involved a major scope change once construction was underway. When the topsoil was removed, we encountered 1.5 meter of sub soil, which needed to be removed and replaced with engineered fill.

Majority of the scope of this project was completed in the winter months, which posed additional challenges to the earthworks team.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

ICONIC was selected for our ability to provide a turnkey solution for EPCOR. They sought a Prime Contractor who could seamlessly bring together the complex deliverables. Our substation and earthworks teams worked in unison to complete all deliverables in an efficient and highly coordinated manner. ICONIC was also able to self-perform the reclamation and drainage scope of this project.

Earthworks Scope of Work:

  • Setup and maintenance of ESC
  • Soil management
  • Supply and installation of two (2) transformer containment systems
  • Concrete ductlines and control building underground concrete foundation
  • Screw piles, chain link fencing
  • Sewer and water tank supply/installation
  • Supply and installation of geo grid, geo textiles and ground grid
  • Reclamation and drainage work

Electrical Scope of Work:

  • Installation of structural steel supports for 240kV AIS apparatus
  • Lightning masts, 240kV steel gantries, stairs, platforms and handrails
  • Electrical installation of:
    • 240kV dead tank circuit breakers
    • 240kV capacitive voltage transformers
    • Vertical break disconnect switches
    • 240kV surge arrestors and 240kV busbar system
    • Pulling and terminating all high and low voltage cable

RESULT / SOLUTION

ICONIC’s earthworks team was able to draw on our extensive experience building greenfield substations. We have encountered just about every challenge over the years, which allows us to quickly adapt when required. An example of this would be with proper soil management we were able to protect the civil materials from freezing before they were compacted. To ensure maximum efficiency, we utilized GPS equipment while moving soils. By sourcing materials from our long-term suppliers, we were able to pass preferential pricing onto the client as well.

Over the entire year on site, ICONIC had zero safety incidents. This was with as many as 16 crew members working on the project at any given time.


Windcharger Battery Energy Storage Project

Windcharger Battery Energy Storage Project

PROJECT SNAPSHOT

Project Name |  Windcharger Battery Energy Storage Project

Owner |

Client’s Name | TransAlta

Location | Summerview, AB

Date / Project Timeline / Delivery | March 2020 to August 2020

Market Sector | Renewable Power, Battery Energy Storage

BACKGROUND (Pre-Project Commencement)

ICONIC was the electric contractor for this project, which utilized TESLA battery technology and has a nameplate capacity of 10 MW with total storage capacity of 20 MWh. The Project is situated next to the Summerview Wind Farm substation on previ¬ously disturbed lands.
The TESLA Megapack batteries provide various operational strategies to support Alberta’s electrical grid. These applications focus on the delivery of sustainable energy, renewable generation smoothing, system voltage and capacity support, as well as grid frequency regulation.

ACTION (ICONIC’s Scope & Delivery)

This project involved the installation of nine TESLA Megapacks to create a 10 MW / 20 MWh Battery Energy Storage System (referred to as “WindCharger”).

Each group of three Megapack units was connected to the grid through one pad mount transformer. The total three pad mount transformers were connected together in daisy chain and then to Summer¬view II 34.5 KV bus. ICONIC’s full project scope included:

  • Construction of road and highway approach
  • Site earthworks and perimeter fencing
  • Foundations
  • Underground collection to the pad mount transformers
  • Underground transmission to the substation
  • Integration into the existing interconnecting substations

RESULT / SOLUTION

This was a successful and high-profile project for ICONIC. It allowed us to demonstrate our core competencies and value as an integrated power and earthworks partner to TransAlta and TESLA. As a result of our collaboration, ICONIC has signed a Master Services Agreement (MSA) to provide maintenance and support across Canada for TESLA.