Customer
Sam Houston Electric Co-Op
Location
Texas
Highlights
-
Accurate Distribution Layout Across 2,000+ Lots Using CAD and QA/QC Controls -
Overcame Site Access and Weather Disruptions in Active Development Area -
Delivered Time, Safety, and Coordination Efficiencies Through Field Integration
Infrastructure Planning and Execution for Large-Scale Residential Distribution Projects
The Challenge
The project required utility infrastructure planning and execution across more than 2,000 residential lots. The client needed a complete underground distribution design including staking, drafting, construction oversight, and planning. Field progress was hampered by active grading operations, muddy conditions, and interference from other trade contractors. Heavy rain delays further complicated the field schedule. Additionally, the high volume of lots required sustained accuracy over an extended duration, necessitating precise layout, ongoing validation, and daily coordination.
Root Cause Analysis
Root Cause Analysis
- Access Limitations: Certain lots were unreachable due to grading or construction by others.
- Weather Interruptions: Frequent rainfall delayed staking activities in critical areas.
- Scale and Accuracy Demands: Managing 2,000 lots required a rigorous QA/QC framework to avoid layout drift and ensure consistent deliverables.
The Solution
CAD-Based Layout and Planning
Think Power Solutions used final plat maps provided by the client to plan and design the underground distribution network. With AutoCAD, the team established precise conduit and primary wire measurements for each lot. Proposed locations for transformers and pedestals were determined in coordination with the client to ensure design intent matched operational needs.
On-Site Execution and Oversight
Field teams conducted daily staking with oversight and reporting to ensure layout precision and ongoing progress tracking. Adjustments were made in real time to adapt to access issues and wet conditions, maintaining safe work zones and minimizing rework.
Coordination and Quality Control
Think Power Solutions implemented structured QA/QC checkpoints and worked closely with the client’s planning and engineering stakeholders. All work was tracked and validated with field reports and ongoing design refinement.
Think Power Solutions used final plat maps provided by the client to plan and design the underground distribution network. With AutoCAD, the team established precise conduit and primary wire measurements for each lot. Proposed locations for transformers and pedestals were determined in coordination with the client to ensure design intent matched operational needs.
On-Site Execution and Oversight
Field teams conducted daily staking with oversight and reporting to ensure layout precision and ongoing progress tracking. Adjustments were made in real time to adapt to access issues and wet conditions, maintaining safe work zones and minimizing rework.
Coordination and Quality Control
Think Power Solutions implemented structured QA/QC checkpoints and worked closely with the client’s planning and engineering stakeholders. All work was tracked and validated with field reports and ongoing design refinement.
Key Benefits
- Accurate Energization Planning: CAD precision and client-aligned layout enabled accurate forecasting and installation planning.
- Time and Cost Efficiency: Flexibility in staking and active coordination helped the client meet development milestones without delays.
- Improved Safety and Oversight: Working conditions were continually assessed, ensuring safe field practices even during inclement weather.
- High-Volume Project Readiness: The TPS team demonstrated capacity to manage complex, large-lot infrastructure designs through integrated planning and execution.
The Results
The project was completed on budget, with all layout and distribution designs meeting client specifications. Despite weather and site constraints, Think Power Solutions delivered a fully planned and accurately staked utility distribution system for over 2,000 lots. The approach validated the company’s expertise in managing residential infrastructure at scale, integrating planning, technology, and field responsiveness.
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