Ft. Atkinson Water Utility, WI:
New SCADA System $ave$ Community Money
Background
Ft. Atkinson Water Utility serves the community of Ft Atkinson which is
nestled along the Rock River and has a population of approximately 12,000.
A draft energy survey prepared by Wisconsin Focus on Energy provided the
Utility with a summary of energy efficiency opportunities which would improve
operations, save money and provide the best value for the customers.
The Grants of Industrial Energy Efficiency Projects program is a partnership
offering information and services to energy utility customers throughout
Wisconsin. The Water Utility wanted to take advantage of the grant funds from
this program. They needed to implement the recommendations of the Energy
Survey which included upgrading the Utility’s existing Supervisory Control and
Data Acquisition System (SCADA) to allow for demand shifting. Demand shifting
is the practice of scheduling energy intensive processes for off-peak periods
which reduces expensive demand charges and lowers the amount of higher
on-peak rates.
Solution
Baxter & Woodman’s Electrical Group designed, installed and provided training
for the Utility’s new SCADA System.
Summary of the Water System SCADA Upgrade provided the Utility with :
• SCADA Master Telemetry Unit at the main pumping station
• SCADA Server Personal Computer at Well 3 with required hardware/software
• Remote Telemetry Units at Wells 4, 6, 7, and the South Tower
• UHF Radio utilizing the City’s existing FCC license
• Removal of existing SCADA control panels
• Installation and wiring of new control panels at all facilities
• Programming of the SCADA System
• Conduit and wiring for field connections
• Testing and start-up to ensure fully operational system
• Training sessions for Utility staff
Results
The new SCADA has been in operation since October, 2004. The Utility is
hoping to attain a 30% decrease in electrical costs. The customers benefit by
having reduced water rates due to the decrease in operational costs. More
importantly, the Utility is doing its part to enhance the environment by decreasing
electrical needs and ensuring the future supply of energy for Wisconsin.
“Cost-effective solutions that provide value to the Ft. Atkinson Water Utility and its customers is one of our top priorities.”
Terry Siglinsky
Utility Supervisor
Ft. Atkinson
