MCC Solar PV Installations
Location: Colchester County, NS
Client: Municipality of County of Colchester
Duration: 2023-2025
Approximate Value: $1.85 M
Key Staff: Mike Gallagher, Angelo di Quinzio
Project Description
In early 2023, The Municipality of Colchester (MCC) had reached out to industry to provide the design, supply, and installation of four net-metered solar PV systems on municipally and community-owned facilities in Colchester County. The project included four net-metered solar PV systems to be installed between 2023-2025.
The projects:
Project 1: Roof mounted Solar Array on Tatamagouche Library (30kW)
Project 2: Ground mounted Solar Array on Central Colchester’s Wastewater Treatment Facility (500kW)
Project 3: Roof mounted Solar Array on North Colchester Rec Centre (120kW)
Project 4: Roof mounted Solar Array on West Colchester United Arena (120kW)
Work included integration within the existing electrical systems, coordination with utilities, engineering inspections of existing structures, and future proofing installations.
Harbourside’s Role
Following the award of the Design Build contract, it became apparent that a higher level of project management expertise was required. Therefore, in fall of 2023, the municipality had contracted Harbourside Project Management to manage all aspects of the delivery.
Harbourside would act as Municipality’s representative during all stages of construction. Our role involves representing the interests of the municipality throughout the construction process. This includes attending meetings, reviewing progress, and ensuring that the project aligns with the municipality's requirements.
In addition to the above, HPM acts as the internal point of contact by leading communication with all stakeholders at the various solar facilities. Furthermore, to ensure strong communication and buy-in from stakeholders, HPM conducts regular Risk Management Workshops. This has the double benefit of giving stakeholders a sense agency over their facilities.
As part of regular project management, HPM conducts site visits, manages all project documentation, and manages the Design Builder. The regular site visits allow us to monitor progress and address any issues that arise. As the primary party responsible for managing project documentation, all contracts, permits, and correspondence flow through Harbourside Project Management. Additionally, Harbourside provides technical expertise as Owner representative, reviewing shop drawings and other submissions.
Additional Project Management Responsibilities
Monitoring Budgets and Schedules:
It's essential to closely monitor the project's budget and schedule to ensure the project stays on track. The project manager tracks project costs and compare them to the approved budget and identify any deviations. Similarly, the project manager monitors progress against the project schedule and addresses any delays or slippage that may occur.
QA/QC:
Quality management and follow-up reviews are completed on an ongoing basis to ensure that the construction meets the specification.
Support Services:
Commissioning support and warranty tracking for all facility components. Harbourside provides support during the commissioning phase of the project, ensuring that all systems are properly tested and functional as designed. We are responsible for tracking warranties for all project components to ensure that any issues that arise post-construction are addressed promptly.
Social Impact
In the move towards green energy, the Colchester County solar panels are a huge step forward. They represent a commitment to sustainable sources of electricity, and a shift away from fossil fuels. The installation of solar infrastructure shows that communities are willing and able to fight climate change, one step at a time. Although there is still much work to be done, these solar panels represent a larger trend and will be of tremendous benefit to the community of Colchester County in the years to come.