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Committee weighs portable-generator hookup and transfer-switch option rather than trenching to jail generator
Summary
Members discussed backup power options on March 3, including using an existing 5,500-watt portable Honda generator with a transfer switch as a lower-cost alternative to trenching to the jail generator; staff will obtain cost and installation estimates and propose a plan at a future meeting.
The Good Services Committee discussed backup-power options for county facilities at its March 3 meeting and indicated a preference for a lower-cost solution using an existing 5,500-watt portable generator and a manually operated transfer switch rather than trenching and tying into the jail's permanent generator.
Committee members noted that running conduit and trenching across a parking lot to use the jail generator would likely be expensive and technically difficult; members asked staff to get estimates for capacity requirements and installation costs before making a final decision. "I don't know that that would be feasible," a committee member said of tying into the jail generator; staff agreed to look into capacity and cost and to report back before the next meeting.
Staff said the county already has a new 5,500-watt Honda portable generator in storage that has never been started. Members discussed installing a transfer switch inside the maintenance building and placing the generator outside to be plugged in when needed; that approach would require an electrician to install a transfer switch but would avoid permanent trenching. The committee also discussed maintenance for a portable unit (regular starting and using ethanol-free fuel) and testing frequency; one member recommended running the unit weekly or monthly as a check to ensure it will start when needed.
The committee asked staff to obtain quotes for transfer-switch installation and any required circuit extensions, and to return with numbers at the next meeting. The committee did not record a formal vote; staff will proceed to gather estimates and report back.
