Jacobs is to carry out the design of a $577 million backup power system that will be the first of its kind in the USA for public transport.

Jacobs is to carry out the design of a $577 million backup power system that will be the first of its kind in the USA for public transport.

It will provide design and general engineering services for NJ Transit's microgrid project, NJ Transitgrid.

The objective of the project is to implement a microgrid capable of providing reliable power for core critical transit infrastructure supporting rail systems. The microgrid will be capable of supplying highly resilient power during critical times when the regional electric grid may be compromised due to storms or other events.

Key design components of the new microgrid include a central, natural gas-fired power plant and associated substations, transmission/distribution lines to substations that electrify the tracks and operating controls for critical portions of the systems, as well as connections to the commercial grid.

Under the terms of the contract, Jacobs is providing owner's engineering services including regulatory and economic advisory services, conceptual and preliminary design, procurement support, contract packaging for the procurement of design-build contracts, and construction assistance to support the development of the NJ Transitgrid project.

Jacobs senior vice president buildings and infrastructure Randy Pierce said, “NJ Transitgrid is set to make a tremendous difference in the lives of the commuting public during the times when they need it most when events disrupt New Jersey's critical infrastructure, isolating the local population from their jobs, families, and other important services. This project continues to advance NJ Transit's leadership in resiliency and recovery.”

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