The Guam Power Authority received the green light from the Consolidated Commission on Utilities which approved a resolution allowing the procurement of construction services for the $3.9 million project to convert a portion of "overhead" distribution lines to underground power lines.
The project focuses on improving power reliability for eight active Guam Waterworks Authority water wells in Dededo.
"GPA aims to minimize interruptions to water service for homes and businesses in Dededo and surrounding communities by reducing the risk of storm-related damage to the electrical lines serving these wells," GPA said about the P-087 GWA Underground Conversion Project.
The project is part of GPA's broader Grid Resiliency Plan which prioritizes undergrounding and strengthening the island's power grid which serves water and wastewater systems, medical facilities, communications infrastructure and other critical areas.
GPA said underground power lines are an "important part" of its long-term strategy to reduce vulnerabilities to high winds, falling trees and flying debris which can cause "widespread outages during typhoons."
"The storms we've experienced this year have required significant time, manpower, equipment and materials to repair damaged overhead power lines," GPA General Manager John Benavente said. "When power to water wells is lost, water service can be disrupted, affecting the health and safety of our communities. Putting these lines underground will help reduce that risk and allow our crews to focus on restoring power to other customers."
The total cost of the P-087 GWA Underground Conversion Project is estimated to cost $3,945,438. According to GPA, 62% of the project cost is funded through a $2,455,334 grant from the U.S. Department of Energy under the Grid Resilience State and Tribal Formula Grants program. GPA will need to cover the costs of the equipment, material and labor which is estimated at $1,490,104.
GPA said P-087 serves 26 GWA water well locations in Dededo, including four inactive wells.
"The initial project will address eight active wells, with GPA exploring opportunities to underground power lines serving the remaining 18 well locations in future projects," GPA said.
As part of the project a portion of the feeder underground will be placed underground including installing new electrical infrastructure and adding a recloser to improve reliability during storms. GPA said the improvements will also reduce maintenance demands at water well locations that can be difficult for its crews to access.
The approval of the project through the CCU resolution is just one step.
"GPA will seek Public Utilities Commission (PUC) approval of the project's
bid documents before proceeding with procurement. Construction is expected to be completed within 580 days following issuance of the Notice to Proceed," GPA said.
According to GPA, the investments are intended to reduce storm-related damage, improve restoration times and build power system resilience.