The existing site power is served from an overhead 15 kV utility power line that runs generally east to west across the site. A pole mounted transformer provides 120/240V power to a pad mounted 600 amp switchboard (MDC), located adjacent to the pole, which is located between the ranch house and bunkhouse. There is a separate service from the same pole that appears to feed the well pump. Feeders run underground from the switchboard to the ranch house, bunkhouse, and storage building. The caretaker’s mobile home is fed from the ranch house, and the barn is fed from the bunkhouse.

The BLM would request Nevada Energy to provide two new power services to serve the new campus buildings. A new 120/208V, 3-phase service from a pad-mounted transformer located adjacent to the research building would feed a distribution panel (MDP1) in the building. Underground feeders from the distribution panel would serve the maintenance building and bunkhouse. The pumps for the ground source heat pump bore field would be connected to this service. A new 120/240V, single-phase service from a pad mounted transformer located adjacent to the caretaker or manager’s residence would feed a distribution panel (MDP2) on the exterior of the building. Underground feeders from the distribution panel would serve the guest cottage, camping pavilion, and RV hookups. Site lighting and site power pedestals would be fed from the nearest building. A stand-alone photovoltaic system shall be provided for the entry monument and sign lighting.

The existing buildings on site would continue to be served from the existing switchboard MDC. It is expected that due to increased loads, the feeder to the barn would need to be replaced with a new, larger service fed directly from the MDC. The adequacy of the feeders to the other existing buildings would be evaluated as the design progresses and loads are known. It may become necessary to replace the existing MDC due to required capacity or the inability to add the necessary circuit breakers.