Electrical construction refers to the installation of electrical systems in buildings and infrastructure. This involves installing components like wiring, lighting, switchgear, transformers, backup and emergency power systems, fire alarms, security systems, building automation systems, and more. Electrical contractors work closely with general contractors, architects, and engineers to provide safe, compliant, and reliable electrical systems.
There are two main approaches to electrical construction projects: design-bid-build and design-build. In design-bid-build, engineers complete the design upfront and bid out to electrical contractors. In design-build, the electrical contractor takes on design and construction responsibilities.
The process often begins with the owner or general contractor selecting an electrical contractor for design-build electrical projects. The contractor should have qualified design staff, project managers, foremen, and licensed electricians. Requirements are defined, including building use, power loads, backup power, lighting levels, and integration needs.
The electrical contractor then develops a proposal covering the full scope of work, timeline, milestones, preliminary budget, and fees. They may partner with engineering firms to provide specialized design services for large projects. The owner reviews the proposal and negotiates any revisions until both parties are in agreement.
Before final approval, the owner validates the electrical contractor’s qualifications, experience, safety policies, bonding, and insurance. The design-build contract is then signed, outlining the terms, fees, timeline, deliverables, and other obligations.
With design-build electrical construction, the contractor is responsible for designing and installing the electrical systems per the owner’s requirements. This single point of accountability streamlines decision-making and accelerates timelines.
Since the contractor handles design, they can optimize it for efficient procurement and installation. Shifting quickly between design and construction phases facilitates rapid adjustments and problem-solving. This can also lead to fewer change orders than completing the design separately before construction.
Owners maintain control over the details and gain the advantage of coordinated design and construction under one entity. Clear requirements and oversight are still needed to align the outcomes with the owner’s goals.
Want to learn more about how the design-build process benefits electrical construction projects?
Now that you have a better understanding of electrical construction and design-build, let’s examine the phases of a project:
The pre-design phase focuses on clearly defining the project’s scope, deliverables, and constraints. The owner provides details on building size, purpose, power loads, backup systems, automation needs, and any other electrical requirements. A realistic budget and schedule are established.
The contractor researches permit requirements, codes, and utility connections. They recommend electrical solutions suited for the facility and budget. Pre-design avoids later issues by setting stakeholder expectations from the outset.
Any changes after this point can incur penalties, so the scope, specifications, costs, and timeline should be thoroughly vetted first. The design then proceeds based on the approved pre-design plan.
In the design phase, electrical engineers develop technical drawings, equipment schedules, and specifications to meet the agreed-upon requirements. This includes sizing wires, circuits, and gear; interior and exterior lighting placement and controls; backup power; fire alarms; building automation systems; and integration with other trades.
The lead engineer coordinates with the project manager to ensure efficient procurement and installation. Constructability, safety, and costs are balanced with functionality and aesthetics. Preliminary drawings are shared with the owner for feedback before final approval.
Detailed plans are provided for the next phase of procurement. Having the designers and builders collaborate on the design saves time and avoids issues.
During procurement, the electrical contractor uses the approved design to choose the specific makes and models for all equipment, wiring, conduits, devices, controls, etc. They select products that align with the design intent while meeting availability, cost, and quality needs.
Items like switchgear, generators, transformers, and control panels may require extended lead times, so the contractor must plan ahead. Procurement may occur in phases to align with the construction schedule. The project manager tracks orders and deliveries throughout the process.
Choosing suitable materials and equipment is critical for performance, safety, and costs. The contractor uses vendor relationships while keeping the owner’s interests in mind.
The construction phase involves installing all electrical components safely, correctly, and on schedule. A project manager coordinates workers, materials, and inspections. Licensed electricians handle tasks like running conduit and wire, terminating panels and devices, setting gear and fixtures, testing, and energization.
Forepersons provide oversight of daily field activities and quality control. Safety protocols protect workers and inspectors. Coordination with other trades prevents conflicts or rework. The schedule makes spaces ready for electrical work when needed.
Change orders are minimized since the contractor manages both design and construction. The owner is updated on progress and any deviations from the plans.
Once installation is complete, the electrical systems undergo thorough testing and commissioning. This comprehensive process verifies that all wiring and connections were correctly done. Power distribution, backup power, lighting circuits, controls, meters, and safety systems are carefully tested.
Issues like loose connections, miswirings, and defective devices are identified and corrected. Testing ensures electrical safety and prevents problems down the road. Strict adherence to the National Electrical Code and other standards is mandatory.
The designer and contractor work together to validate the end results. Once passed, the owner receives training on the new electrical systems. Utilities can then energize the building’s permanent power.
The design-build delivery method is gaining popularity for electrical construction due to the many benefits it offers compared to the traditional design-bid-build model:
With over 20 years of industry expertise, CTI is your trusted partner for all electrical construction needs. Our in-house team of designers and electricians serves businesses across Utah. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary electrical construction consultation, and let’s power your projects together.
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