Commissioning Emergency Power Systems
The commissioning of complex emergency power systems requires the commissioning provider (CxP) to possess technical knowledge of applicable regulations, standards and codes in addition to considerable real-world experience with emergency power systems and integrated systems testing. When discussing emergency power systems, it is important to understand a few key distinctions in equipment and system terms. NFPA 110: Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems defines emergency power supply systems (EPSS) as including the emergency power source (generator), distribution (such as paralleling switchgear) and transfer switches. Whereas the emergency power supply (EPS) includes only the emergency power source (generator) and any distribution upstream of the transfer switches.
In a recent article for Consulting-Specifying Engineer, Jesse Felter explains the basics of commissioning an emergency power system, helps the reader learn about the emergency power supply system sequence of operations, and covers the basics of when a power system is ready for commissioning.
