A massive transformer now stands at the Tweezer Substation, marking a major milestone that aligns with the Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS) Site Power Modernization Strategy. Doubling the previous transformer’s capacity, the installation of this transformer is a significant step forward, ensuring that our mission requirements for increased power capacity and reliability are met for decades to come.
Initial studies began in 2018 and, as a result, the project to upgrade the Tweezer Substation was initiated in the spring of 2020. Shortly thereafter, the COVID-19 pandemic caused worldwide manufacturing and supply chain issues, challenging our ability to obtain the transformer in time for the project. The NNSS team pursued an advanced procurement to receive the transformer on a timeline that would meet our power needs. This strategy not only reduced market lead times by a year, but also included the transformer’s shipping, offloading, installation, and field service. The success the NNSS had at Tweezer led to Headquarters adopting and employing the strategy at other sites within the enterprise.
The new transformer was energized in May 2024 and declared fully operational in July, two months ahead of schedule. This accomplishment was realized because of the diverse team of professionals at the NNSS: Construction, Construction Support, Design Engineering, Power Operations, Program Management, Project Controls, Project Management, Supply Chain, and many more. Adding to this dynamic team were the subcontractors who provided their expertise and equipment to deliver the design, ship and receive the transformer, and provide onsite installation services.
Considering the technical intricacies of the contract, the pandemic, and the global demand for this equipment, the timeline itself is an exceptional feat. The NNSS credits strategic decisions and effective project management in making the difference to overcome obstacles and deliver. The dedication and hard work of the entire team was instrumental in making this project a success. At the NNSS, our people make our projects successful. Many thanks to all who were involved!
