Submitted By: Bobby Whitehead
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Presentation By: Doug Peebles
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Department: Electric Utility
STAFF RECOMMENDATION (Motion Ready):
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Approve the purchase of four R-Mag circuit breakers for various substations from WESCO Distribution in the amount of $175,397
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OCALA’S RELEVANT STRATEGIC GOALS:
Fiscally Sustainable
PROOF OF PUBLICATION:
N/A
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BACKGROUND:
Ocala Electric Utility (OEU) is transitioning from spring-charge mechanism breakers to R-Mag circuit breakers manufactured by ABB Inc. and distributed by WESCO. R-Mag circuit breakers are protective devices that feature a maintenance-free magnetic actuator and provide greater efficiency and improved reliability over the existing spring-charged breakers that require periodic maintenance and are prone to malfunctions.
OEU's strategy to phase out outdated equipment evolved after identifying a malfunction in older breakers. Prioritizing safety and system reliability, the decision to replace all remaining units with ABB Inc.'s R-Mag breakers underscores OEU's commitment to mitigating risks and maintaining operational excellence across substations.
On May 2, 2022, OEU requested standardization of ABB, Inc.’s R-Mag breakers because of the inability to obtain parts for the breakers that were in service. The Procurement and Contracting Officer approved the standardization of ABB, Inc.’s R-Mag breakers citywide.
FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS:
Ocala Electric Utility requests approval to purchase four R-Mag circuit breakers to complete the systemwide breaker upgrade.
FISCAL IMPACT:
Funds for the breaker upgrades are budgeted in the Fiscal Year 2024-25 capital project account numbers:
• 332-032-181-531-69-65010 - Nuby’s Substation (3) = $122,943
• 332-032-173-531-69-65010 - Paddock Substation (1) = $52,454
PROCUREMENT REVIEW:
These goods were procured in compliance with the City’s Procurement Policy.
LEGAL REVIEW:
N/A. The terms and conditions of the City’s standard and approved Purchase Order shall govern this purchase.
ALTERNATIVE:
• Approve with Changes
• Table
• Deny