The existing infrastructure, some components of which had been in service for more than 50 years, posed growing risks to maintenance and operational continuity. At the same time, the system needed to provide uninterrupted power to two major district energy plants, a co-generation facility, and over 100 campus buildings for research, learning, and residential use. The EDU project was conceived to address these challenges while positioning the university for long-term growth. 

Designed by RMF Engineering in collaboration with university stakeholders and Balfour Beatty, the project replaces the entire electrical distribution network with a smart 15kV system. The new grid is organized into six simplified circuit loops fed by upgraded switchgear and interconnected through automated, pad-mounted switches. These switches are equipped with advanced monitoring and control capabilities, allowing the system to detect faults, isolate affected areas, and automatically reroute power within seconds, minimizing disruption to campus operations. 

The upgraded system delivers 50 percent more electrical capacity than its predecessor, ensuring it can support the University’s evolving needs over the next four decades. It also enhances operational safety by enabling remote monitoring and control through a centralized SCADA system, reducing the need for manual intervention in potentially hazardous conditions.

A key aspect of the project is how the system will be used in real time. The self-healing functionality ensures continuous service to critical facilities such as laboratories, data centers, and residence halls, where even brief outages can have significant consequences. In addition, the standardized design simplifies maintenance procedures and improves system reliability, allowing campus facilities teams to respond more efficiently to issues. 

Equally important, the project was carefully phased and executed to maintain uninterrupted service throughout construction. Extensive testing, ranging from factory simulations to full-scale field validation, ensured the system’s performance before full deployment, all while avoiding disruptions to daily campus life. 

Completed in 2025, the EDU project provides NC State with a state-of-the-art electrical backbone that not only meets current demands but also enables future expansion, innovation, and sustainability. It is a foundational investment in the university’s mission, ensuring that its academic, research, and residential environments remain powered, connected, and resilient.