Educationals & Libraries

Portland State University (PSU)—Electrical Distribution Master Plan & Study

About

This Work

This campus-wide electrical study evaluated PSU’s complex utility infrastructure, which was previously served by 40 separate low-voltage PGE service points (480V/208V). MEC developed a master plan outlining the feasibility and benefits of consolidating these services into a single primary metering point supported by a new 12.47 kV medium-voltage distribution system. The study provided PSU with a long-term strategy to improve electrical reliability, reduce operational costs, simplify maintenance, and support campus expansion.

Campus with green lawns, trees with autumn leaves, campus signs, and a modern building with glass windows in the background.

Project Specifications

Facility Type:

University electrical distribution study

Campus Size:

40 existing PGE service feeds

Voltage Levels:

480V / 208V existing

12.47 kV proposed MV system

Study Scope:

Service point consolidation strategy

Load and capacity analysis

Medium-voltage distribution concept design

System Evaluated:

  • Primary metering

  • MV loops & transformer placement

  • Redundancy and reliability improvements

Key Outcomes:

  • Simplified utility structure

  • Increased electrical reliability

  • Long-term infrastructure roadmap

Exterior view of a two-story restaurant or bar at night, with illuminated string lights on the upper deck, large windows showing people dining inside, and a small group of people standing outside on the sidewalk.

Powering Your Vision

From the first spark of an idea to a fully energized project, MEC is here to make your electrical solutionssmarter, safer, and stronger. Let’s bring it to life.

Contact Us
Silhouettes of two Queen chess pieces on a black background.