In the intricate web of modern energy infrastructure, the Transmission –Line (T-Line) Engineering team at RRC serves as the conduit linking power generation projects to the grid network. With a focus on engineering overhead or underground high-voltage lines, the team plays a pivotal role in enabling the seamless integration of renewable energy sources into the broader electrical framework. From finding optimal route placements to designing the structures themselves, their goal is to equip clients with the necessary insights and support to navigate the complexities of grid connection. Stamping drawings, offering construction support, and ensuring project completion are all part of the team’s responsibilities. 

Established in 2019, T-Line Engineering is one of the newer services within RRC, yet the team has proven instrumental in expanding the company’s project portfolio. Often engaged at the project’s outset for feasibility analysis or permitting support, they serve as the initial point of contact for many clients. This early engagement not only highlights RRC’s capabilities but also lays the groundwork for additional services, sparking a ripple effect that benefits the entire company.  

Behind the scenes, this small but mighty team boasts an impressive collective background. Each having at least 20 years of industry experience, the team members bring a wealth of knowledge spanning the entire spectrum of transmission line engineering. According to T-Line Engineering Manager, Steve Beilstein, “Every type of structure you could ever imagine, every type of foundation, every type of insulator assembly, pretty much any sort of combination that you see in the world of a transmission line – we’ve done it and we’ve done it from the beginning of the project all the way through construction. Having this level of expertise in one spot is like having a think tank. It’s really special in the industry.“ 

RRC’s clients fall into three main categories: owners, developers, and Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) firms involved in renewable energy projects. When working with EPC firms, RRC provides engineering services. On the other hand, owners and developers buy land, pay for equipment, and hire an EPC to build but RRC serves as their engineer instead. In addition to these main client types, the team occasionally provides owners engineering services, offering expert reviews of engineering designs to ensure clients’ confidence in the project’s integrity.  

A typical project undertaken by the T-Line Engineering team at RRC begins with conducting an analysis of the project’s requirements; this includes deciding the best route for the transmission line, considering several factors such as existing infrastructure, environmental impact, and land ownership. Following this preliminary analysis, the team provides plans and profile drawings outlining the placement of overhead lines and structures. These drawings, along with other project specifications, are then integrated into the request for proposal (RFP) package, which is crucial for soliciting bids from EPC contractors.  

As the project progresses, the team collaborates closely with utility companies to ensure seamless integration with the grid. They refine the design, addressing any challenges or unforeseen obstacles that may arise during the construction phase. The team’s role extends into procurement and construction support, and they work closely with contractors to address any discrepancies between the design and on-site conditions, providing engineering solutions as needed. Geotechnical and soil considerations can often present significant and unforeseen challenges in T-Line projects, that can impact construction schedules and safety. The same goes for terrain and environmental and social impacts, which all have to be accounted for. Despite the challenges, the T-Line team is dedicated to supporting its clients and ensuring project success. “We try to work through those challenges with our clients. And once they have gone through that with us, they really appreciate the expertise that our team brings. 

The T-Line team is focused on strategic growth while maintaining quality standards. Steve envisions the team expanding four to five times its current size within five years, emphasizing organic growth aligned with project demands. As the energy sector continues to transform, the RRC Transmission Line team stands at the forefront, shaping a more interconnected future. 

To learn more about RRC, follow us on LinkedIn.  

In the ever-evolving landscape of renewable energy, RRC stands out not just for its pioneering projects but also for its remarkable leaders, one of whom is Danielle Vournas, Engineering Manager for the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) team. With a blend of expertise in renewable energy engineering and a sincere commitment to her team, Danielle is not just a leader; she’s a strong voice for women in STEM and a driving force for innovation at RRC.

Danielle’s journey from a curious undergraduate interested in battery technology to the leader of RRC’s BESS team is a testament to her passion for renewable energy and relentless pursuit of excellence. Danielle has transitioned through various facets of engineering, always with an eye toward sustainability and innovation. “I started working in a commercial battery research lab while pursuing my undergraduate degree [at the Oregon Institute of Technology (OIT)] which continued on through my graduate time,” Danielle recalls. “My role was a blend of chemistry and engineering, which allowed me to explore battery materials and cells down to the atomic level, design and build innovative cell construction and test fixtures, perform forensic analysis on failed commercial cells, and sometimes light things on fire.”

With a bachelor’s degree [from OIT] in renewable energy engineering and a master’s degree in computer and electrical engineering from Portland State University, Danielle’s educational journey laid a solid foundation for her career. Her graduate thesis work designing control systems for magnetically geared wind turbines led her to a stint at Jacobs Engineering designing upgrades for hydroelectric control systems and writing PLC code to control industrial waste processes at a semiconductor chip manufacturer. While these experiences were rewarding, her experiences working with batteries resonated more, and her journey to find her next role in batteries led her to RRC.  

Under Danielle’s guidance, the BESS team’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in battery storage and renewable energy is a source of pride for RRC. “Our work is contributing to the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure, and that’s worth celebrating every day,” says Danielle, encapsulating the essence of the BESS team’s mission and RRC’s commitment to renewable energy.

Danielle’s approach to leadership is both inspiring and practical, marked by empathy, inclusivity, and a steadfast focus on professional growth and team cohesion. “I try to lead with empathy as much as possible,” Danielle shares, underscoring her philosophy of meeting her team members where they are, to foster an environment where everyone can thrive. “Being a consultant in a sector that is this nascent can be chaotic, and I see the stress of that roll through my team. But the crucible of new technology, new codes, and unpredictability of players also creates great opportunities for growth in the right people. My team is made up of those people; and we are going to continue to see great things from them.”

As a woman in engineering, Danielle navigates her career with a blend of tenacity and insight. She emphasizes the significance of fostering a supportive community for women in engineering, advocating for initiatives within RRC to empower female engineers. Her vision extends to cultivating a culture of mentorship and networking, aiming to bridge the gender gap in the engineering domain. “I want to acknowledge that I stand on the shoulders of many that came before me, who worked in environments and companies far less friendly to women. While I believe the landscape has improved, sometimes it is still hard to be one of the few, sometimes the only, woman at the table. As I continue to develop as a leader, I want to use that platform anyway I can to support women in STEM.”

Under Danielle’s leadership, RRC’s BESS team has more than doubled in size and that growth will continue. Their growing experience and capabilities have made them a respected and valued voice in the industry, and the continued arc of their development promises great things ahead. Her ability to drive innovation while fostering a culture of empathy and inclusivity is what makes Danielle a true leader.

In the expansive landscape of energy exploration and infrastructure development, precise land surveying is indispensable. At the core of this critical operation is RRC’s dedicated Land Surveying team, serving as the backbone for numerous successful oil & gas and renewable projects across diverse U.S. locations. 

The Land Surveying team shoulders a multifaceted range of responsibilities vital for project execution and compliance. Their duties span from conducting thorough land surveys to ensuring regulatory adherence and laying the groundwork for seamless energy infrastructure construction and maintenance. We sat down with Gary Box, Senior Vice President overseeing Land Surveying, Brad Ames, Client Executive Project Manager, and Obi Ubasineke, Land Surveyor, to dive into the team’s journey, outlook, and distinctive approach. 

Evolution and Growth

The team has evolved and grown significantly in the last three years. “We are a team of 75 people. Since 2020, we have fully diversified into a renewable powerhouse, with a 17,200% growth margin at the end of 2023. We are projecting 2024 to have the same growth pattern, as we are locking in strategic partners and long-term relationships,” notes Gary.  

Clientele and Challenges 

“Our client roster includes industry giants like Rosendin, Blattner and RES,” Brad shares. However, he notes that clients understand the concept of land surveying but lack clarity on specific requirements. “We bridge this gap by offering guidance and clarity throughout the process,” he adds. “For instance, let’s say the client wants an ALTA* survey. We ask them to fill out a table A and they don’t know what it is. Recently, we’ve had meetings with the clients where Obi has set out and explained the table A. We have gotten emails after saying, “Thank you, no one’s ever done that for us before.”  

Obi adds, “Another problem is being able to effectively get a project schedule for a timeline from the client. There’s a lot of hurry up and wait and then they want it tomorrow.”

*ALTA (American Land Title Association) Survey plots each element in a title report where easements and encroachments are on the property. 

Recent Projects and Impact 

Brad recounts a recent project where meticulous surveying unveiled critical discrepancies, saving the client from costly errors. “We’re doing a huge project for a major EPC* client, for which we were hired to do the construction survey. We suggested verifying the surface and ground elevations before the start even though it wasn’t in our scope. They agreed, and we found that the surface was up to 2-foot elevation off. Our client’s contractor didn’t agree with our findings, but when the client checked for themselves, sure enough, we were right. Our team’s commitment to accuracy and reliability fosters client trust, earning us larger projects,” he emphasizes. 

“We saved this same client a lot of money on another project. We were doing some as-builts,** and they had us out there shooting so many things and I told them, why don’t we just square it off? That saved them about $200,000. They were very happy with that and that’s the way we’ve done every project since. RRC’s goal is to assist the client and become a project partner to win more work and become an important part of the client everyday thought process. Those are just some examples of how we’ve grown to be dependable.” 

*Engineering, Procurement and Construction 

** As-built: A set of drawings that are marked-up by the contractor building a facility or fabricating a piece of equipment that show how the item or facility was actually built versus the way it was originally designed. At the completion of a project, the as-built drawings describe what was actually built. 

Team Differentiators 

“From the client’s perspective, Survey always answers the call, we never say no and we always figure out a way,” Brad emphasizes, highlighting the team’s unwavering dedication to problem-solving. “Every client has said those things,” he adds, underscoring the team’s reputation for reliability and responsiveness.  

Obi echoes Brad’s sentiments, shedding light on the team’s distinctive approach to client interactions. “At RRC, we prioritize understanding the client’s needs,” he explains. “We take the time to learn what they want and need to complete their plans, suggesting solutions that not only align with their objectives but also optimize efficiency and cost-effectiveness,” Obi elaborates, emphasizing the team’s commitment to going the extra mile.  

Brad further emphasizes the importance of building meaningful relationships with clients. “We listen, we visit the field, we share meals, and engage in personal conversations,” he says. “Clients want a partner who will listen and assist them, and that’s what we strive to be,” Brad asserts, emphasizing the team’s role as a trusted ally in every project. 

Obi underscores the team’s commitment to transparency, a cornerstone of their client relationships. “We are 100% transparent if there’s accountability that needs to be had, which doesn’t happen often.” Transparency is non-negotiable, even if it means advising clients to opt for alternatives that might not directly benefit the team financially. “That’s just building the relationship with that client,” Obi adds, illustrating the team’s integrity and dedication to client success. 

Brad emphasizes the importance of their consistent delivery of exceptional customer service. “In the latest client satisfaction survey at RRC, Land Surveying scored 20% higher than all other teams in the company,” he reveals proudly “that says it all.” 

Future Trends 

Obi highlights ongoing explorations into innovative surveying techniques such as lidar, UAVs, bathymetric surveying, sonar, and geomagnetic surveying. “We’re not just keeping up with new equipment; we’re constantly exploring diverse surveying methods beyond just boots on the ground,” he adds. 

Vision for Land Surveying 

Brad envisions RRC’s Land Surveying team combining surveying, testing, Private Utility Locating (PUL), Storm Weather Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), and drone services into a comprehensive offering. “Combining these services in one entity streamlines processes and enhances efficiency,” he asserts. “Right now, every company other than RRC has to hire five in different individuals to each of those five things. RRC has all those in house, so why not combine them in one truck? Our team has already started on three of them – survey testing and slip in the truck. We’re working on getting all five pulled in the same truck. Why would a client hire five different companies if he could hire one company to do it all? That’s our goal.” 

Team Dynamics

“Our camaraderie extends beyond work,” Obi mentions that the team shares personal bonds, enabling seamless collaboration. “I think a big reason we work so well together is because we have friendships outside of work. We talk about things outside of work, we know each other’s families. Just the culture that we have I think is it goes a little deeper than work. That’s a huge part that I’ve noticed. ”  

Brad echoes this sentiment, emphasizing trust as the cornerstone of their dynamic. ” There are some guys here I’ve known since I was 13. Survey is a big industry, but a small world and the biggest thing in survey is trust. I can trust if Obi tells me he’s going to have a delivery at a particular time, it’s going to be done and that he’s going to take the time I’ve spent with clients breaking bread into consideration before he gives me a deliverable. Clients trust us because they see the trust within our team,” he remarks. 

In conclusion, RRC’s Land Surveying team stands poised at the intersection of tradition and innovation, embodying reliability, expertise, and adaptability crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of energy infrastructure development. As the team continues to expand its capabilities and uphold its commitment to excellence, Surveying’s impact reverberates across the energy industry, driving progress and success. 

At the ACP’s Operations, Maintenance & Safety Conference coming up in San Diego on February 21-23, Sandra Laird, VP of Field Services at RRC, is set to take part in a panel discussion on quality assurance and work management—an area traditionally overlooked in the realm of clean energy conferences. We caught up with Sandra to get the inside scoop on her upcoming presentation and what it means for the industry. 

The ACP conference, renowned for its focus on safety and maintenance, has taken a bold step this year by incorporating quality assurance into its agenda for the first time. Sandra Laird, with her extensive experience in engineering and construction, has been invited to contribute her valuable insights to this initiative. 

At the heart of Sandra’s presentation is the integration of quality control and assurance methodologies into the construction process of clean energy projects. She emphasizes the importance of adopting robust quality systems to prevent issues and minimize risk, ultimately ensuring the reliability and longevity of clean energy assets. 

During the panel discussion, Sandra will delve into various aspects of quality management, from identifying common construction pitfalls to implementing effective quality controls. With a focus on practical solutions and real-world examples, she aims to equip attendees with actionable insights to enhance the quality of their projects. 

One of the most anticipated aspects of Sandra’s presentation is the interactive format. Rather than a traditional lecture-style session, Sandra and her fellow panelists will engage in a dynamic dialogue with the audience, encouraging questions and discussions on pressing industry issues. This inclusive approach promises to foster a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued and shared. 

Reflecting on her selection as a panelist, Sandra expresses gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to the advancement of quality practices in the clean energy sector. She acknowledges the importance of industry collaboration and welcomes the chance to exchange ideas with fellow professionals at the forefront of clean energy innovation. 

Stay tuned for updates from Sandra’s presentation at the ACP conference, and join us in applauding her pioneering efforts to raise the bar for quality assurance in the clean power industry. 

Recap

In my previous post, I delved into the significant challenges posed by inaccuracies in grading plans on large-scale solar PV power plants, highlighting issues such as cost overruns and disputes during the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) phase. I used a hypothetical example of a 6-inch elevation error over 1,800 acres to illustrate its potential impact on project costs and schedules.  

I identified three exacerbating factors: the scarcity of suitable, flat land for development, challenges in lidar survey execution, often due to the under utilization or inexpert application of UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) technology, and the constraints of horizontal single-axis tracker systems on uneven terrain. I also discussed the complexities of managing spatial data, emphasizing the importance of precise specifications in coordinate systems and the role of derivative products in geospatial analysis.  

Building on this foundation, this article focuses on RRC’s strategic expansion in remote sensing. This initiative aims to enhance our ability to provide authoritative advice, advanced products, and specialized services in the renewable sector, particularly in wind, PV solar, and BESS projects.  

Great News!  

We are thrilled to announce the latest addition to our leadership team: Karen Schuckman, joining us as a Remote Sensing Subject Matter Expert. Karen’s extensive background includes her most recent role as Associate Teaching Professor of Geography at Penn State University, where she specialized in remote sensing and geospatial technology. Additionally, she serves as the Executive Director of the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS).  

Karen’s professional journey spans both the private and public sectors. Her notable tenure includes positions such as Geospatial Technology Leader at URS (2005-2006) and various leadership roles at EarthData group (now Fugro) from 1995 to 2005. Her contributions to the field are substantial, including leading remote sensing efforts during the Hurricane Katrina response and spearheading lidar acquisition for the North Carolina Floodplain Mapping Program.  

Before her private sector involvement, Karen worked with the USGS National Mapping Division in California and served as Vice-Chair of the NOAA Advisory Committee on Commercial Remote Sensing (ACCRES). She is a member of the National Research Council Committees on Floodplain Mapping Technologies and FEMA Flood Map Accuracy. Karen’s credentials are impressive, holding ASPRS certifications in Certified Mapping Scientist, Lidar and a Certified Photogrammetrist; along with a couple of Professional Land Surveyor licenses. She earned her Master of Science in Geospatial Information Systems from Penn State University.  

2023 marked another record year for RRC, driven by growth and the trust our customers placed in us. This success motivates our executive team to restructure our services and operations, aiming to enhance our quality while meeting the demands of a growing industry. Stay tuned for exciting updates as Karen, with the support of the executive team, finalizes the planning for RRC’s next significant advancement!   

Miguel Silva, Sr. VP, RRC Companies  

RRC holds the status of a Sustaining Member with the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS)  

In a pivotal collaboration with the Multiple Engineering Cooperative Program (MECOP), RRC is rewriting the narrative on experiential learning for future engineers. Tim Chairet, RRC’s Member Representative and the program’s alumni, and Mike Kraft, Senior VP of Electrical Engineering at RRC, recently shared insights on the program’s transformative impact. 

The MECOP program’s unique partnership yields benefits across the board. Universities thrive on the success of their students, who, in turn, gain invaluable practical experience through two six-month paid internships, providing a significant edge in the competitive job market. Simultaneously, companies benefit by securing access to a pool of skilled and motivated workers. 

Chairet emphasized the program’s unique structure and benefits: “It’s a collaborative ecosystem that extends beyond traditional models, fostering a thriving community and alumni network. When I went through the program, I felt it gave me the right tools to be successful in the workforce.” 

The program, headquartered at Oregon State University, serves as a nexus for five universities and companies in the Pacific Northwest. Adapting to the challenges posed by the pandemic, MECOP responded by expanding remote opportunities and eliminating relocation hurdles for students. 

Kraft highlighted the program’s impact on students’ professional journey: “MECOP breaks the mold of traditional education, offering students a chance to gain a year of practical experience. This not only sets them apart in the job market but also helps them navigate diverse career paths within their field.” 

Students who decide to intern at RRC gain access to the company’s impressive bench of industry experts, creating a supportive ecosystem that encourages collaboration across different fields and degrees. The program’s modest yearly fee underscores its commitment to fostering talent. Chairet emphasized the broader impact: “MECOP isn’t just about individual gains; it’s about building the next generation of competent engineers who are motivated to make a positive impact. We’re not just providing opportunities; we’re shaping the future of the industry.” 

Interns enrolled in the MECOP program enjoy a host of advantages, ranging from breaking the monotony of traditional college experiences to gaining a year’s worth of industry exposure. At RRC, the interns benefit by being exposed to multiple engineering disciplines including substation, electrical, and transmission line engineering to name a few, all adding to their unique learning experience. 

Chairet summed up the essence of MECOP: “It’s not just a program; it’s a movement. MECOP equips students with the tools they need, exposing them to diverse disciplines within a company committed to renewable projects. These students aren’t just learning; they’re motivated to change the world for the better.” 

In an era where collaboration and innovation drive success, RRC’s MECOP program stands out as a beacon of transformative education, steering the trajectory of aspiring engineers toward a future marked by competence, motivation, and sustainable impact. 

For more information about RRC and to stay updated with the latest news, please follow us on LinkedIn. 

by Miguel Silva, SVP, RRC Companies

Inaccuracies in grading plans often lead to significant cost overruns and contentious disputes among parties involved in the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) of large-scale solar PV power plants. Consider the ramifications of a 6-inch elevation discrepancy across a 1,800-acre site: this could result in up to 1.45 million cubic yards of additional earth being moved, drastically affecting both contracted cost and schedule.

This article aims to shed light on a critical problem that adversely impacts both the cost and construction schedule of solar projects. With costs of major solar project components such as PV modules, inverters, and trackers decreasing, the expense of grading or earthworks has become a significant fraction of total project cost. This issue is further exacerbated by three main factors:

1. The scarcity of flat land available for developing and building these projects.
2. The lack of adherence to proper specifications and best practices in the execution of lidar surveys, often exacerbated by the underutilization or improper use of UAV technology.
3. Horizontal single axis tracker system limitations to adapt to uneven terrain and slopes.

• Remote Sensing, particularly in the context of UAVs and their capabilities in data collection.
• Spatial Reference System
• Derivative Products

Inaccurate grading plans manifest as discrepancies between civil IFC documents and field measurements, including elevation and earthwork quantities, during construction. Other associated risks relate to flooding and inadequate hydraulic/drainage analysis. These discrepancies arise from various sources, some of which could be organized in the following categories:

While each category could merit its own detailed analysis, we will briefly touch on each to foster open discussion, particularly focusing on the evolving role of UAVs in remote sensing and their impact on the accuracy and reliability of large-scale solar PV project planning..

Remote Sensing

Remote Sensing, as defined by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), is ‘the art, science, and technology of obtaining reliable information about physical objects and the environment, through the process of recording, measuring, and interpreting imagery and digital representations of energy patterns derived from non-contact sensor systems.’

In the context of our discussion, we will focus on the collection of topographic data using lidar (light detection and ranging) technology. There are numerous methods for collecting ground elevation data using lidar. For large land areas, the most common approach involves using sophisticated sensor packages mounted on flying platforms such as fixed-wing aircraft, rotary-wing aircraft, and/or UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles).

With technological advances and the proliferation of UAVs (also known as drones), many individuals and companies have started offering mapping services based on lidar and aerial photography. However, often these services are provided without the necessary minimum training, appropriate equipment, or both.

To avoid errors which later will impact construction cost and schedule, it is crucial when requesting lidar services from vendors to ensure that they have a qualified lidar mapping scientist and/or photogrammetrist assigned to manage the project. In some states, like North Carolina, a professional license is required to perform these tasks; in other states like Texas, agencies such as the Department of Transportation require work to be supervised by ASPRS Certified Professional even though licensure is not required under state law.

Spatial Reference System

‘A spatial reference system (SRS) is the georeferencing and coordinate system assigned to geographic data. It defines how geographic data is mathematically transformed onto a flat map. The correct spatial reference settings and transformation allow geographic data that has different coordinate systems to line up in a Geospatial Information System (GIS).’ (Ref. University of Connecticut, CT ECO).

Many errors in spatial data arise from incomplete specification of the project coordinate system. This can result in small but significant discrepancies in horizontal and vertical coordinates and can lead to misunderstandings, particularly at project interfaces where information and deliverables are exchanged between various contributing parties.

As an example, a user might specify ‘NAD 83 State Plane Texas Central,’ expecting consistent interpretation by both users and software (e.g., ArcGIS vs. Civil 3D). However, within this state plane zone, numerous instantiations exist, each based on different NAD83 adjustments. For instance, there are ten different versions of NAD83 Texas State Plane Central, all sharing the same Federal Information Processing Standards (FIPS) code.

This situation can cause significant challenges in projects where precise geographic data alignment is crucial. It’s essential for users to not only specify the map projection but also be aware of the underlying datum and adjustment used to avoid potential errors and inconsistencies.

Derivative Products

Light Detection and Ranging (lidar) point cloud data enables us to create a wide array of spatial information products, often referred to as ‘derived or derivative products.’ These products are crucial for effectively understanding and addressing geospatial challenges. Examples include, but are not limited to, digital elevation models (DEM), digital surface models (DSM), digital terrain models (DTM), canopy height models (CHM), triangular irregular networks (TIN), contours, and land XML surfaces.

It is essential to understand project tolerances (e.g., pile reveal, slope constraints, etc.) and the accuracy and application of data (e.g., for post-development hydrology studies, grading plans, energy simulations, shadow analysis, etc.) to determine the appropriate type and format of derivative product required. For instance, various modeling techniques for topographic and hydrologic surfaces cater to different user applications in hydrology studies, such as:

• Photogrammetric DTM.
• Lidar DTM with no supplemental breaklines.
• Hydro-flattened lidar DTM.
• Lidar DTM with enhanced breaklines.
• Hydro enforced lidar DTM.
• Hydro conditioned lidar DTM.

Beyond these, there are numerous other elevation derivatives that should all be created from the same certified source, whether it is a lidar point cloud or a photogrammetric stereo model. These derivatives include:

• Hillshades
• Slope maps
• Aspect maps
• Curvature maps
• Profiles and cross-sections
• Height above ground maps
• Viewshed maps
• Watershed maps

Just because UAVs are readily accessible, and numerous online services offer a wide range of associated services from planning aerial missions to processing remotely sensed data, we must resist underestimating the complexities and challenges in specifying, collecting, and delivering lidar and imagery data, along with its many derivative products. In my home country of Venezuela, there’s a saying, “Zapatero a su zapato,” which translates to “let the cobbler stick to his last” in English, or in other words “stick to what you know.  In the surveying and engineering professions, the commonly used phrase is “practice within your area of expertise.”

Embracing this popular wisdom, RRC has embarked on an ambitious journey to expand our team with individuals who bring the necessary knowledge and expertise. Our goal is to enhance our ability to provide authoritative advice, products, and services to the industry. So, please stay tuned for future updates!

RRC Companies, as a multidisciplinary engineering firm specializing in the renewable sector including wind, PV solar, and BESS, leverages Project Development Engineering team expertise supporting development and construction (approximately 95 GW), along with the resources of our Geotechnical Engineering, Land Surveying, and Civil Engineering groups. We are ideally positioned to address the challenges described above and to provide new, comprehensive, and reliable services to the industry.

Miguel Silva

Senior Vice President

RRC Companies

RRC is a Sustaining Member Company of American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS)

by Jimmy Li, RRC Companies

The Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) industry is a young and rapidly evolving sector in the world of renewable energy. With the growing demand for clean energy solutions, the BESS industry has seen substantial growth. However, this growth comes with its own set of challenges, particularly in markets like the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and the California Independent System Operator (CAISO) regions, which are among the most active and lucrative for BESS projects. One of the significant challenges faced by developers and owners is ensuring the security and efficiency of their systems, which often involves implementing advanced Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems.  In this article, we will delve into the top challenges faced by developers and owners in these regions and explore potential solutions to address them.

Commercial Operation vs. Scope of Work Document

One of the primary challenges in the BESS industry, particularly in the ERCOT and CAISO markets, is aligning the commercial operation of the project with the initial Scope of Work (SOW) document. Often, the commercial terms and logistics are not fully established when the project’s scope of work is put together. As a result, developers and owners may realize during the commissioning phase that adjustments are needed to meet their commercial requirements at the Commercial Operation Date (COD).

This challenge can lead to significant risks and delays during construction, as the project schedule and Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) contracts are already set. To mitigate this challenge, RRC’s experts recommend that the operation team gets involved in the project’s design phase as early as possible. Simon Chee, Senior Vice President of RRC SCADA, explains that “collaboration between SCADA engineers and the commercial team can ensure a clear understanding of how the plant needs to be operated, under various scenarios such as PV priority and BESS priority. Involving end-users at the project’s design stage can help finalize the Scope of Work requirements, reducing schedule delays and uncertainties.”

Additionally, having a dedicated SCADA project coordinator from day one can help manage the testing requirements and deliverables effectively. This coordinator should ensure that all parties involved in the SCADA-related aspects of the project work together seamlessly.

CAISO and SCE Testing 

In California-based projects, interfacing with Southern California Edison (SCE) can introduce unique challenges related to testing requirements. As more BESS projects are added to the California market, CAISO and SCE are evolving their testing requirements. Owners and developers may find themselves unaware of certain tests that need to be performed, leading to last-minute scheduling and potential project delays.

Furthermore, CAISO point testing in California requires full telemetry data from the actual source device, rather than using forced values. Coordinating the availability of this data, such as MET station data, can become a rush demand, as it needs to be online before CAISO point checks can take place.

To address these challenges, RRC recommends experienced SCADA coordinator or project manager dedicated to the commissioning phase is crucial. This individual can manage and monitor milestones and deliverables to ensure they are on schedule. Additionally, incorporating a detailed SCADA schedule into the construction schedule with clear milestones can help avoid last-minute surprises.

Fast Frequency Response in ERCOT

In ERCOT, fast frequency response (FFR) is a critical requirement for BESS projects. ERCOT’s ancillary services demand that power plants respond within 250 milliseconds after receiving a command. Achieving this rapid response is challenging, as it requires coordination and communication between power plant controllers, meters, and inverters at an incredibly fast rate.

The default communication protocol for inverters, robust TCP, is slow and can hinder the ability to meet the 250-millisecond requirement. To address this challenge, manufacturers are developing high-performance MODBUS drivers that enable faster communication between inverters and power plant controllers.

Additionally, some manufacturers are working on inverter-level support for fast frequency response, allowing inverters to respond without explicit commands from power plant controllers. However, this approach is still in development.

Another solution, as implemented by RRC, involves using unique communication protocols and efficient control systems to achieve fast frequency response in BESS projects. This approach can help meet ERCOT’s demanding requirements.

Addressing these challenges is crucial for the successful implementation of BESS projects in ERCOT and CAISO markets. Challenges related to commercial operation alignment, testing requirements, and fast frequency response can impact project schedules and substantial completion dates. Failure to address these challenges can lead to significant financial losses for project owners.

RRC stands out among engineering firms as it can support BESS projects from inception to completion. With a comprehensive range of services, including project development, geotech, civil, structural, electrical, and SCADA engineering, as well as land surveying, field services, and Construction Materials Testing (CMT), RRC covers every aspect of a BESS project. Our expertise and track record in addressing the challenges faced in ERCOT and CAISO markets make us a valuable partner in the rapidly evolving BESS industry.

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by Sergei West, RRC Companies

With its inaugural webinar on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), RRC has launched “Energy Tech Talks with RRC,” a series of technical sessions developed for the community of renewable energy professionals. The Energy Tech Talks aim to share the vast pool of industry knowledge accumulated by RRC’s experts with the company’s clients, industry peers, and its own team members and to engage them in a conversation about the present state and the future of renewable energy.

“We saw the need for these webinars in our conversations with clients. The market is growing so quickly, bringing in new talent from multiple adjacent sectors. There are nearly two decades’ worth of industry insight that RRC can share with these new market entrants. As one of the top engineering companies in the renewable space in North America, we welcome all as we push for clean energy independence,” shared Mike Kraft, Senior Vice President for Business Development and Electrical Engineering. “People who’ve worked in renewable energy for some time can stay abreast of the trends and technological advances by attending Energy Tech Talks. Meanwhile, new talent can use our webinars to get acquainted with the sector.”

RRC plans to roll out new webinars monthly. After the initial broadcast, webinars will be available for replay on-demand. All the webinars can be accessed through RRC’s webinar channel, where users can also sign up to receive updates when a new technical session is announced. Registration is free and open to industry professionals. All live and on-demand viewers can request a certificate of attendance, which professional engineers may use toward professional development hours.

Energy Tech Talks will cover a breadth of technical areas for wind, solar, and BESS markets, taking full advantage of RRC experts’ multidisciplinary knowledge. The future webinars will cover project development, geotechnical, structural, civil, electrical, and SCADA engineering, as well as land surveying, private utility locating, construction material testing, and field services. RRC has already held two successful live webinars. The first on trends in the development and implementation of energy storage systems, and the second on how to address poor quality and workmanship on solar installations. Both webinars are now available on demand.

The next live webinar, “Sizing and Optimizing PV/BESS for Remote Locations,” is scheduled for December 06, 2023.

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