New Orleans, LA - The joint venture team, together with the manufacturer of the static frequency changers (sfc), has made significant progress in the ongoing testing required to bring SFC 1 into service for operating drainage pumps. Following a series of tests on the connected switchgear, the project team successfully reached a major milestone: energizing SFC1 with power from the substation and transformer equipment. Last week, the team verified that SFC1 is capable of achieving its design performance—producing 22 MW of 25-Hz power. This achievement was confirmed using a simulated load source, known as a load bank, in a controlled setting.

SFC1 is now physically connected to the 25-Hz electrical distribution system. The testing of SFC 1 to power drainage pumps was anticipated to begin today; however an issue was discovered on Friday, with the 25-Hz electrical components that requires further investigation and repair. Due to the ongoing investigation and the availability of manufacturer representatives, testing is expected to resume next week. Once the electrical and initial pump tests are completed, the project team will continue with testing SFC 1 to ensure reliable performance. These steps are critical as we move toward incorporating SFC1 into SWBNO's  power lineup and reducing dependence on existing power generation equipment.

Any additional issues discovered during testing, or weather-related delays could affect the timeline. The team will continue to provide updates as work progresses.

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