Client:

Late in 2004, Energex announced an expenditure program on network upgrades at unprecedented levels.  This was in response to reports from a government enquiry and subsequent recommendations.

Energex required a huge design effort well above their internal capacity and requested their existing design subcontractors to provide as much assistance as they were capable.

Project Scope:

Project scopes ranged from replacement of local pad mount transformers to complete new feeders several kilometres long.  Projects consisted of Underground and Overhead network up to 33KV.  Large volumes of design work were required in a short space of time.   Lectel received the Lion's share of the outsourced workload which was greater than our current staff levels.

Our response:

Lectel management restructured the design department to minimise peripheral duties.  All administrative roles were removed an design specialists positioned to deliver 100% of their time to this project.  Recruitment proved difficult with a chronic skills shortage of experienced designers.  However key recruits were discovered and commissioned and a team of designers and drafters were built around them. Electrical design manager Ken Clive was moved to project manage the works becoming the sole point of contact with Energex.  An innovative project management system was designed and progress reporting tools implemented to provide feedback to the 5 Energex hubs. Our software team has customised CAD to automate drafting processes and Energex have provided remote access and a laptop to directly access Energex network data for drawing production.

Outcomes:

Lectel has completed over 80 designs since late 2004 including civil only designs at Energex's request.  Project delivery is prioritised in conjunction with Energex and Design plans emailed direct to the hub design manager.