Strategic Management of Electrical Distribution Infrastructure for the Valley Village Affordable Housing Development

Abstract

This project developed a strategic electrical distribution infrastructure solution to support the interconnection to the Valley Village affordable housing development in Santa Isabel, Puerto Rico, consisting of approximately 300 residential units with a projected demand of 2,150 kVA. Operational studies confirmed that the existing 4.16 kV feeder operated at approximately 90% of its loading capacity, resulting in thermal loading and voltage regulation limitations that restricted additional load integration. Engineering analyses, including load flow simulations, voltage drop evaluations, and distribution design validation, were conducted to identify feasible interconnection alternatives. The methodology followed the PMBOK framework and incorporated a structured decision matrix based on technical feasibility, reliability, cost efficiency, and operational risk. The selected 13.2 kV feeder extension was developed to an execution-ready level within the established $800,000 project budget. The resulting solution is expected to improve system capacity, enhance voltage performance, and suppotrt long-term reliability and future load growth.