CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM
ACTION REQUESTED:
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Approve the award of Bid 25-029, New Substation Transformer, to WEG Transformers USA LLC for an amount not to exceed $2,111,500 and for a 46-month term
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DEPARTMENT: Electric Utility
SUBMITTED BY: Brian Groth, Director
BOARD/COMMISSION REVIEW:
N/A
BACKGROUND:
The Naperville Electric Utility (Utility) operates 37 substation transformers that step transmission voltage down to lower voltages for distribution throughout the City.
The Tollway Substation operates a three-winding transformer, known as 30XA. This transformer services distribution circuits and customers as well as a 34kV sub-transmission network that feeds smaller substations such as Indian Hill and Washington substations.
On September 7, 2024, the 30XA transformer failed. Subsequent analysis and an internal inspection verified that the windings of the transformer had failed, and the unit could not be returned to service.
Due to redundancy in design of the system, the loss of this one transformer has not created any extended ongoing outages. However, the Utility is now in a backup contingency configuration. This means that a critical element is out of service and stress is being added on the backup/alternate equipment to maintain service to all customers.
Under peak loading conditions, or in the event that another critical component goes off-line, it is not certain that the Utility could maintain service to all of the City's customers.
In March 2025, the Naperville Electric Utility issued Bid 25-029, New Substation Transformer, to solicit bids for the replacement of the transformer.
DISCUSSION:
Advertisement Date:
03/07/2025
Notices Sent:
232
Opening Date:
05/09/2025
Planholders:
59
Proposals Received:
03
Bids were received from the following vendors:
Vendor Name
Proposed Cost
Engineer's Estimate
$2,000,000
WEG Transformers USA LLC
$2,111,500
Niagara Power Transformer, LLC
$2,164,229
KW Associates
$2,688,000
The bid included pri...
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