Overcoming Equipment Failure to Keep Binger Station Project on Track

While powering up new equipment at Binger Station, we encountered an unexpected issue—one of the new network switches failed to power up. After thorough troubleshooting, we confirmed that the voltage and polarity at the input terminals were correct, indicating that the switch itself was defective.

This posed a significant problem, as the switch was critical for completing remote checkout with the dispatch center. A replacement switch was not available in stock, and although it was a warranty issue, the estimated lead time for a new unit was 3-4 weeks—a delay that would have disrupted this project, impacted the cross-dependent project timeline and incurred substantial additional costs.

Rather than allowing the project to stall, Think Power Solutions took a proactive approach to problem-solving:

• On-Site Resourcefulness: We identified a spare switch in a rack designated for a future phase of the project.
• Client Collaboration: We immediately engaged the client’s oversight team and leadership, proposing the use of the spare switch to keep the current project on track.
• Efficient Execution: Upon receiving approval, we coordinated with the wiring crew to swap out the defective switch, ensuring all safety protocols were followed.
• Seamless Integration: The newly installed switch powered up correctly, allowing us to program it and establish full communication between station devices and the RTU.

This project highlighted the importance of resourcefulness, proactive problem-solving, and strong client collaboration.
While the project faced multiple delays, Think Power Solutions ensured that our portion was completed on time, preventing further setbacks and unnecessary costs.
At Think Power Solutions, we don’t just solve problems—we find the most efficient path forward, ensuring success even in the face of unexpected challenges.

By leveraging available resources and thinking critically, Think Power Solutions prevented further project delays and additional incurred costs.

• Prevented Further Delays: Without our solution, the project would have missed key end-of-year milestones due to cross-project dependencies.
• Minimized Financial Impact: The Protection & Control (P&C) portion alone could have incurred an estimated additional $120K in delays.
• Met Project Objectives: Our solution ensured that all devices communicated as required and that our portion of the work was completed on time.
• Demonstrated Reliability & Flexibility: We were selected for this project because of our availability, flexibility, and expertise in P&C work—and we delivered.