Voltage Conversion and Equipment Replacement

Increasing Capacity While Minimizing Customer Disruption

In remote British Columbia, Lauren partnered with BC Hydro to convert an existing 12 kV distribution system to 25 kV, supporting capacity growth and aligning with province-wide standardization initiatives. The upgrade served nine industrial customers in the Quesnel region and required careful coordination across customer-owned systems and mixed overhead and underground infrastructure.

Designing for scalability, reliability, and customer continuity

Lauren assessed existing conductors, structures, and equipment for 25 kV compatibility, replacing or upgrading transformers, reclosers, and protective devices where required. New distribution layouts were developed to support future conversions, while detailed protection coordination studies ensured selective operation and minimized impacts to critical loads.

Managing complexity through stakeholder coordination and outage planning

The project demanded close engagement with multiple industrial customers to verify equipment compatibility, schedule outages, and implement temporary supply solutions where necessary. Early field assessments, protection studies, and transition planning enabled Lauren to address technical and operational risks proactively, keeping the project aligned with BC Hydro standards and customer expectations.

What we delivered

Completed in 2019, this project highlights Lauren’s leadership in complex voltage conversion programs.

• Infrastructure: 25 kV distribution upgrades, transformer and recloser replacements
• End-to-End Expertise: Voltage modeling, protection coordination, customer transition planning
• Execution Excellence: Minimized outages through proactive scheduling and stakeholder engagement

Services Provided

• Project management
• Electrical utility & electrical engineering
• Procurement
• Construction inspection