As part of its infrastructure enhancement initiatives, Coles Supermarkets commissioned an electrical upgrade at its Bunbury location to improve energy efficiency, safety, and operational reliability. The project required meticulous planning and execution to upgrade critical electrical systems without disrupting daily store operations. 

Execution Strategy:

• Assessment and Planning: Conducted a thorough assessment of the existing electrical infrastructure to identify areas requiring upgrades. Developed a detailed project plan outlining the scope of work, scheduling, and resource allocation, with a focus on minimizing disruption to store activities.

Installation of Light and Power Distribution Boards: 

• Design and Fabrication: Designed new distribution boards to accommodate the store’s electrical load requirements and future expansion needs. 
• Installation: Installed the new boards, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems and compliance with safety standards. 

Upgrade to 1000-Amp Mains Supply: 

• Infrastructure Enhancement: Upgraded the mains supply to 1000 amps to support increased electrical demand and improve system reliability. 
• Testing and Commissioning: Conducted rigorous testing to ensure the new mains supply operated efficiently and safely.

Smoke Spill Fan Control Cubicle Installation: 

• Safety Compliance: Installed a dedicated control cubicle for the smoke spill fan system to enhance fire safety measures within the store. 
• System Integration: Integrated the control cubicle with the store’s fire safety systems, ensuring responsive operation in emergency situations. 

Relocation of Voltage Optimisation Cubicle: 

• Assessment and Planning: Evaluated the optimal location for the voltage optimisation cubicle to enhance accessibility and performance. 
• Relocation Process: Safely relocated the cubicle, ensuring minimal disruption to store operations and maintaining system integrity. 

Night Shift Operations: 

• Scheduling: Planned and executed the majority of the work during night shifts to avoid interference with daily store activities and customer experience
• Safety Protocols: Implemented stringent safety measures to protect workers and store property during night-time operations. 

Challenges and Solutions: 

• Maintaining Store Operations: 
  To ensure uninterrupted store operations, critical tasks were scheduled during night shifts. This approach required careful coordination and efficient work practices to complete tasks within limited timeframes. 

• Safety Considerations: 
  Working during night hours necessitated enhanced safety protocols. MECS implemented comprehensive safety plans, including adequate lighting, clear signage, and regular safety briefings to mitigate risks. 

• System Integration: 
  Integrating new electrical components with existing systems required meticulous planning and execution to ensure compatibility and optimal performance. Thorough testing and commissioning processes were employed to validate system functionality. 

Outcome: 

The electrical upgrade at Coles Bunbury was completed successfully within the six-week timeframe. The new installations have enhanced the store’s electrical capacity, improved energy efficiency, and bolstered safety measures. The project was executed with minimal disruption to store operations, maintaining a safe environment for both customers and staff. 

Client Feedback: 

Coles Supermarkets expressed satisfaction with the professionalism and expertise demonstrated by the MECS Electrical & Controls team. The successful completion of the project within the stipulated timeframe and the quality of the installations were particularly appreciated.