WKYT-TV is the local CBS television affiliate serving central Kentucky. This project consisted of installing a standby generator that will provide backup power to the main facility, which houses the production studios, news room, and administrative offices. Parsons provided design/build services, preparing all construction documents, and installation of the electrical systems.
Parsons designed the necessary modifications to the existing power distribution system to accommodate the generator. An 800 KW standby diesel generator in an outdoor weatherproof enclosure was installed adjacent to the 1000 foot antenna tower. A 1200 amp service entrance rated closed transition automatic transfer switch, a 1000 KVA pad-mount transformer, and a 300 KVA pad-mount transformer were also provided. All of the work was done adjacent to the existing antenna tower, satellite dish farm, and two pad-mount transformers, which all remained in use during the installation. Underground excavation work was done using a high pressure water system to protect the many underground conduits and cables running through the construction area. Parsons coordinated the necessary power shut-down with the owner and local utility company. During the shut down, three electrical services into the building, one rated for 2000 amps and two rated for 600 amps, had to be intercepted, spliced, and extended to the new power distribution equipment. Parsons acted as the general contractor, handling all phases of the work including the concrete pads and equipment rigging.
