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Customer

American Electric Power logo

Location

Central and Midwest US

Project Value

$4B

Highlights

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Enhanced Oversight Efficiency

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Improved Compliance

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Rapid Resource Deployment

Enhanced Efficiency for $4B CAPEX Program

The Challenge

AEP, a leading energy provider, needed a trusted partner to help effectively manage their annual $4 billion Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) Oversight program. The program’s success was critical to AEP’s project outcomes.

Responsibilities included project updates, schedule oversight, budget management, and quality control. Navigating these responsibilities across AEP’s extensive operational footprint spanning eleven states, 220,000 distribution line miles, and 40,000 transmission line miles was a large task. Finding a single contractor capable of supporting such a diverse service area, while meeting AEP’s stringent safety and compliance standards, added complexity to the process.

The Solution

Think Power Solutions, equipped with years of focused CAPEX oversight experience, quickly identified a solution to address AEP’s challenges. Recognizing the need for localized expertise, Think Power Solutions promptly appointed group managers with the necessary knowledge to establish local oversight teams across the Central and Midwest U.S.

Furthermore, Think Power Solutions ensured all contract compliance obligations, including drug and alcohol screening, enhanced training, and a robust safety program, were promptly fulfilled post-signing. Within three months of contract approval, resources were on-site with comprehensive training. Streamlined processes allowed for rapid hiring as needed, often within a week of client notification.

Key Benefits

  1. Enhanced Oversight Efficiency: Localized oversight teams delivered efficient project management and oversight across AEP’s extensive operational footprint, ensuring timely updates, schedule adherence, budget management, and quality control.
  2. Improved Compliance: Fulfillment of contract compliance obligations, including drug and alcohol screening, enhanced training, and robust safety programs, ensured adherence to AEP’s stringent safety and compliance standards, mitigating risks and enhancing project outcomes.
  3. Rapid Resource Deployment: Streamlined processes facilitated rapid hiring and deployment of resources, with on-site teams established within three months of contract approval. This agility enabled quick response to project needs and minimized delays.
  4. Localized Expertise: Appointment of group managers with localized expertise allowed for better understanding of regional nuances and challenges, enhancing decision-making and problem-solving capabilities.
  5. Cost Savings: Efficient project management and rapid resource deployment resulted in cost savings for AEP, optimizing project spend and maximizing ROI on capital expenditures.

The Results

As a result of Think Power Solutions’ intervention, AEP’s CAPEX Oversight program experienced significant improvements in project management efficiency, compliance adherence, and resource deployment agility. The establishment of localized oversight teams, coupled with streamlined processes and robust compliance measures, contributed to enhanced project outcomes and cost savings for AEP. The successful execution of the program underscored the effectiveness of Think Power Solutions’ tailored approach and commitment to meeting client needs.