Switchyard Rebuild

This NERC Medium Impact substation, originally built in the 1970s, plays a vital role in regional power delivery—serving two 600 MW generators, four service lines, and multiple utility clients. The aging 161 kV switchyard needed a full rebuild to modernize equipment, improve reliability, and support future maintenance.

Phase I focused on rebuilding the 161 kV switchyard. AMA replaced equipment in 13 bays, including oil-insulated breakers, stands, instrument transformers, conductor, bus work, and control cables. Two buses were further sectionalized with new tie breakers. A new control building was constructed with 20 simplex relay panels using microprocessor relays and automatic voltage throwover schemes. Temporary interfaces preserved protection during construction. Drainage improvements and new auxiliary station power were also part of the upgrade.

Phase II addressed the 345 kV generator tie. AMA replaced two gas-insulated circuit breakers, all associated steel, bus, conductor, control cable, and footings. The rebuild tied into the broader 345 kV switchyard, which serves two 345 kV lines and connects to both 161 kV and 500 kV systems.