USA, Texas, Wilson County: Floresville Electric Light & Power System (FELPS) is tackling bird-related outages and planning major transformer replacements to enhance grid reliability in Wilson County, Texas.
Birds nesting near warm electrical equipment have caused repeated power outages. To address the issue, FELPS will launch a pilot bird deterrent project at the Sutherland Springs substation. The system, provided by Bird Buffer, emits methyl anthranilate (found in grape skins) as a vapor that birds naturally avoid. The substance is approved by both the EPA and FDA and is considered a humane solution. If successful, the system will be deployed at other substations.
In a parallel effort to prevent transformer-related outages, FELPS plans to remove a 15 MVA transformer from Sutherland Springs after tests revealed acetylene, a flammable gas linked to insulation breakdown and arcing. That transformer will be replaced with one from the Eagle Creek site, which houses a 15 MVA and a 40 MVA unit.
The 40 MVA transformer initially planned for the upcoming Bentwood substation will now be installed at Eagle Creek, allowing FELPS to delay the Bentwood project by at least a year due to transformer supply timelines.
The board approved a $2.5 M purchase of a US-made 50 MVA transformer for the Bentwood substation, with delivery expected in 60–75 weeks. They will also review options for acquiring two more transformers for future needs.
Additional upgrades include new conductors in the Cimmaron and Shannon Ridge areas, and along F.M. 536, beginning late summer or early fall. These improvements are expected to enhance voltage stability and meet growing demand.
Source: Wilson County News
