Rock Island Arsenal Microgrid & Power Generation Project

Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois

We provided comprehensive engineering services to design a resilient power generation and microgrid system.

Haskell provided comprehensive engineering design services for a resilient, sustainable power generation and microgrid system at Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois. The project modernizes Arsenal’s electrical infrastructure while enabling long-term energy security through integrated on-site generation, renewable energy and advanced control systems.

A modernized substation strengthens base-wide power distribution.

The project replaced an aging E‑House switchgear building with a new, conventionally constructed switching station featuring 3,000‑amp, 13.8kV switchgear in a redundant A/B configuration. Designed for long-term reliability, the upgraded substation can operate the entire installation from a single transformer while allowing capacity for future growth.

Integrated generation improves resilience and sustainability.

On-site power generation includes a 14MW natural gas generation plant, 3MW of solar power and coordination with an existing hydropower facility. These systems reduce reliance on external utilities while supporting energy resilience and sustainability goals.

The microgrid enables intelligent control and autonomous operation.

At the heart of the system, a fully integrated microgrid manages multiple power sources and enables seamless transitions between grid-connected and islanded operation. Designed with phased construction to maintain continuous operations, the project enhances reliability, flexibility and long-term performance across Arsenal.

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Izu Mbata, P.E., PMP

Division Leader - Power Delivery Design

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Project Highlights

Designed and delivered a replacement 13.8kV primary substation with redundant A/B switchgear configuration

Engineered and integrated a 14MW natural gas generation plant, 3MW solar power, and existing hydropower assets

Developed a fully integrated microgrid with islanding capability and SCADA system coordination

Provided coordinated CAD and BIM design, construction documents, specifications, and cost estimating

Planned phased underground 13.8kV feeder extensions to maintain continuous Arsenal operations

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