Commissioning MV & LV Electrical Systems: Keentel Engineering’s Expert Approach

At Keentel Engineering, we recognize that the safety, reliability, and longevity of electrical infrastructure hinge on thorough commissioning practices. Based on ANSI/NETA ATS-2017 standards, our team delivers end-to-end testing and commissioning services for medium-voltage (MV) and low-voltage (LV) power systems, ensuring compliance, performance, and operational excellence.

What Is Electrical Commissioning?

Commissioning is the systematic process of verifying that electrical equipment and systems are designed, installed, and tested to meet intended performance and safety standards. Our scope includes:

• Visual & Mechanical Inspections
• Functional Performance Tests
• Power System Studies
• Calibration & Coordination
• Documentation & Equipment Labeling

Why Choose Keentel Engineering?

With over 30 years of experience in power system design, testing, and NERC compliance, our certified engineers (ANSI/NETA ETT) bring:

• Unmatched NETA-compliant commissioning expertise
• Deep knowledge of CIP, risk management, and critical infrastructure protection
• Proven track record with utilities, industrial facilities, and data centers

Our Commissioning Services Include

System Function Testing

Validate protection relays, circuit breakers, sensing devices, and control logic per ANSI/NETA ECS.

Power System Studies

• Short-Circuit Studies
• Protective Coordination
• Arc-Flash Hazard Assessment (NFPA 70E, IEEE 1584)
• Load Flow, Harmonic, and Stability Studies

Inspection & Electrical Testing

Perform Sections 7.1–7.25 of ANSI/NETA ATS-2017 on switchgear, breakers, relays, transformers, UPS, generators, and fiber-optic cables.

Thermographic Survey

Infrared imaging to detect hotspots, with follow-up surveys within 12 months.

EMF Testing

Measure magnetic flux densities to ensure compliance with safe EMF exposure thresholds.

FAQs | MV & LV Electrical Systems

Case Studies

Case Study 1: Arc Flash and Coordination Commissioning – Pharmaceutical Facility (Confidential)

Scope

A 480V system with five MCCs, multiple panels, and standby generators.

Keentel’s Role

• Performed short-circuit, arc flash, and coordination studies
• Generated compliant labels per NFPA 70E
• Verified relay settings and tested protective devices

Outcome

• PPE categories established
• Improved coordination minimized nuisance tripping
• Full compliance with OSHA 1910.269 and IEEE 1584

Case Study 2: MV Substation Commissioning – Utility-Scale Solar Farm

Scope

34.5 kV switchgear, step-up transformers, breakers, and fiber optic SCADA links

Keentel’s Role

• Completed functional system testing under Section 8 of ANSI/NETA ATS
• Verified CT/PT ratios and protective relay wiring
• Performed system energization support

Outcome

• Zero protection failures during energization
• Interconnection approved without delays
• Thermographic baseline survey established for maintenance tracking

Case Study 3: Critical Data Center UPS and Generator Commissioning

Scope

Redundant UPS, battery banks, diesel gensets, ATS panels, fiber ring

Keentel’s Role

• Electrical and mechanical inspection of UPS and emergency systems per Sections 7.22.2 and 7.22.1
• Load testing, insulation resistance, and harmonic distortion measurement
• Verified failover operations via system function tests

Outcome

• Continuous uptime verified under full load
• Reduced harmonic distortion within IEEE 519 limits
• Delivered a full test report with recommendations and asset labeling

Comprehensive Risk Management & CIP Compliance

Our licensed P.E.s and former NERC auditors deliver turnkey risk management, critical infrastructure protection (CIP), and compliance program development. Through detailed gap analysis, CIP audit support, and ongoing regulatory monitoring, we ensure alignment with NERC reliability standards, regional reliability rules, and CIP requirements. Empower your organization with audit-ready documentation, compliance testing, and proactive measures to maintain operational resilience.

Learn more on our NERC Compliance Services.

Partner with Keentel Engineering

Whether you’re commissioning a greenfield facility or upgrading existing infrastructure, Keentel Engineering provides unmatched expertise and compliance assurance. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or request a commissioning proposal.