Overview
Our client, one of the country's largest fully regulated utilities operating in seven states, was constructing a 100-mile long high voltage transmission line. Additionally, the client, in a joint venture with two partnering utilities, was building several new high-voltage substations and a 75-mile high voltage transmission line.
Having not developed a new transmission line in decades, the client turned to PFES for transmission line and substation construction management expertise, as well as portfolio project management support. Some key challenges facing our client included engineering and construction budget overruns, lack of construction contract clarity and change order management, and inexperience in substation and linear project construction management. PFES was charged with helping the utility recover costs, get back on schedule, and improve quality.
Our Approach
Following an in-depth review of project status, resources, and deficiencies, PFES deployed a team of industry experts that integrated seamlessly into the client’s organizational structure. The PFES Portfolio and Construction Management teams utilized Project Management Institute (PMI) methodologies to support project management and ensure more accurate cost forecasting, ensuring that budgets and schedules were recovered to the greatest extent possible. Project gaps were quickly identified and filled by PFES consultants, resulting in tangible cost savings and re-work avoidance.
Outcome
The PFES team was instrumental in the project’s recovery of the budget and schedule, as well as improved the overall construction quality. The PFES Engineering team identified several design and equipment issues missed by the engineer of record and the client's Owner’s Engineering team resulting in significant cost savings and limited construction schedule impact.
When several construction quality issues arose, PFES identified deficiencies in resources and the lack of a proper Quality Assurance program. PFES developed a program that remedied the deficiencies, deploying appropriate consultants who identified and corrected numerous nonconformance issues and established a consistent, experienced QA presence.
The Perfect Construction Management Partner
Our team consists of industry heavyweights that bring substantial expertise to the table for our clients. We partner with you to reduce risk and uncertainty in your capital projects, delivering initiatives on time with significant cost savings while meeting industry and safety standards. Contact us today to find out how we can help.
