Case Studies

Founded in 1922, the Western University Power Plant is the oldest building on the University’s central campus. The plant not only required a complete re-development of the existing co-generation facility, but the structural restoration had to take place while all steam lines were active, in order to keep services operational for the University. This highly complex process included scheduling planned equipment shutdowns, hence the facility being able to carry the necessary load while upgrades were underway.

Abbott was engaged for Life Cycle Costing, Schedule Management, Project Management, and Cost Consulting services. Our team established a capital plan with the necessary budgets and schedules to carry out a multi-year phased renewal and re-development of the entire infrastructure, including the modernization of end-of-life equipment to supply steam and co-generation to the campus. The program implementation included a complete review and structural restoration of existing infrastructure, tunnels, manholes, piping, and value replacements throughout the campus. Abbott’s team displayed unrivaled dedication, donning custom gel-cooled suits to maintain body temperature while inspecting disintegrating infrastructure. This project presented both a high level of complexity and a high level of risk, and by using a methodical and innovative approach, Abbott transformed potential into reality.