Temporary transformer restores East Orange plant to commercial power after surge damages new transformer

At the Feb. 18 East Orange Water Commission meeting, Acting Executive Director Thomas Matich described a multi-day operational disruption after a commercial power surge damaged a high-end fuse in the subpanel of the plant’s new transformer and rendered the transformer inoperative. "We were able to activate the generator, and we were running on generator power for quite a few days," Matich said.

Matich said the surge and subsequent faults reduced production capacity and required the commission to buy emergency water to maintain service. "We’re pumping upwards of 7.5 million gallons out also 1.5 million from Newark," he said, describing a combined production and purchase total of about 9 million gallons while the plant rebuilt reservoir levels. A temporary transformer was installed and commercial power was restored by approximately 7:00 a.m. on the day of the meeting. Matich said the commission will pursue warranty coverage and an investigation into the causes of the transformer and generator failures.