Bergen to Linden Corridor Upgrade

Ridgefield , New Jersey

PSE&G selected Kiewit and joint venture partners to execute multiple portions of the Bergen to Linden Corridor Upgrade Project. Designed to replace the existing double-circuit 138-kilovolt transmission system from Bergen to Linden with a double-circuit 345-kilovolt transmission system, the project eliminates electric system capacity issues and provides higher power quality to the region.

PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization responsible for planning the transmission system in all or parts of 13 states, including New Jersey, determined the new transmission system was necessary to ensure reliable electric service, eliminate anticipated transmission constraints and respond to federally mandated infrastructure expansion.
Kiewit performed the scopes outlined below:

• Circuit Conversion: Engineered and designed the 138- to 345-kilovolt circuit conversion program.
• Switchyard Security: Engineered and procured physical security of the 230- and 345-kilovolt switchyards including precast walls, fencing, gates and helical piles.
• Transmission Hardening: Engineered and procured four 345-kilovolt breakers and half bays that tie into the existing four-bay breaker and a half substation; two 345-kilovolt shunt reactors; and reconfigured the bus layout and interconnection of a local generation plant at 138 kilovolts, which included the addition of a series reactor and transient recovery voltage capacitor units. This scope also contained a 345-kilovolt underground cable design.

Kiewit and joint venture partners executed the following projects:

• Overhead Construction: Replaced 10 miles of transmission line, including the removal of existing lines and lattice structures; clearing; temporary access to roads and bridges; erosion and sedimentation controls; foundation installation; steel pole erection; hardware and insulator installation; conductor; shield wire stringing and fiber optic splicing. Work was performed by KHMA Constructors, the Kiewit, Henkels & McCoy and Aldridge Electric joint venture.
• Switching Station: Engineered, procured and constructed a new switching station, including installation of 345-kilovolt underground circuits, a gas-insulated switchgear, a gas-insulated bus, a 300-kilowatt generator and 345- to 26-kilovolt transformers. Work was performed by KH&M Constructors, the Kiewit and Henkels & McCoy joint venture.