Electrical Project Feasibility Study

What a good one includes

• A detailed load calculation analyzing both peak demand and continuous service requirements to ensure the existing grid or service entrance can support the project.
• A clear roadmap of local utility requirements, connection points, and any necessary easement or permitting hurdles that could delay the timeline.
• A comprehensive list of major electrical equipment needed, including transformers, switchgear, and panelboards, with current lead times and market pricing.
• A granular cost-benefit analysis detailing initial capital expenditure, projected operating costs, and estimated return on investment for any energy-efficient upgrades.
• A practical risk matrix identifying potential physical or regulatory hazards, such as hazardous material handling or code compliance conflicts, along with mitigation strategies.
• A realistic project schedule mapping out utility shutdown windows, staging areas, and labor sequencing to minimize downtime on the active job site.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Relying on outdated utility rate structures and historical material costs rather than getting real-time quotes for key equipment like transformers and switchgear.
• Overlooking the local utility company's lead times for engineering reviews and service upgrades, which can stall a project for months before work even begins.
• Failing to verify the physical space constraints of existing electrical rooms, resulting in purchased equipment that literally will not fit through the doors or meet clearance codes.
• Underestimating the labor hours required for complex tie-ins or working during off-hours, which rapidly erodes profit margins on fixed-bid jobs.

Frequently asked questions