The project addressed the need for reliable, secure power across remote locations while meeting military infrastructure requirements. Large-scale photovoltaic systems, advanced electrical distribution and secure controls enabled resilient plant operations and grid interaction.
CDM Smith designed and installed 383 kW and 4.8 MW solar fields at the South and North Regional Tertiary Treatment plants, including carport-mounted PV systems. Together, they support plant operations and export excess power to the base grid.
The 4.8 MW solar farm was miles from the plant and utility connection, requiring custom power houses with inverters, switchboards and transformers to distribute power over a 15 kV overhead transmission system.
The solar systems were designed to operate as a microgrid with black start capability, allowing the facilities to island and continue operating independently from the grid to support critical wastewater treatment during outages.
CDM Smith installed redundant fiber optic Ethernet networks and used digital tools to provide monitoring, with auto-dialer systems serving as redundant backups at both treatment plants.
New solar capacity is projected to generate 4,600 MWh of electricity annually, with approximately 30% offsetting treatment plant energy demands and the remaining power returned to the base’s electrical grid. Construction required close coordination with base operations and stakeholders, and by self-performing the solar installation, electrical work and SCADA integration, CDM Smith delivered a secure, resilient energy solution that supports long-term mission readiness at Camp Pendleton.
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