High-Reliability Electrical Engineering for Life Sciences Operations
Power Distribution and Commissioning-Ready Design
In a life sciences environment, an electrical system is only as good as its ability to be validated. We engineer power distribution systems with the end in mind: ensuring every component is designed, documented, and installed to meet rigorous IQ/OQ (Installation and Operational Qualification) standards.
- Redundant Medium and Low Voltage Distribution: Design of resilient systems (up to 35kV) that eliminate single points of failure for critical manufacturing processes.
- Validated Utility Interfaces: Engineering seamless utility service coordination that accounts for the extreme uptime requirements of GMP environments.
- Critical Load Protection (UPS and Generation): Strategic integration of Uninterruptible Power Supplies and generator distribution systems specifically sized for critical equipment such as bioreactors, -80°C freezers, and validated storage.
- Integrated CQV Support: Our electrical engineers work alongside our in-house CQV teams to develop electrical systems that facilitate easy testing and streamlined turnover packages for FDA compliance.
- Intelligent Motor Control Centers (IMCC): Advanced MCC design that integrates motor protection, control, and communication with Building Automation Systems (BAS) for real-time monitoring of process-critical motors.
- Master Planning and Infrastructure Assessment: Future-proofing your facility through utility master planning, ensuring your electrical capacity can scale as your pipeline grows.
Specialized Systems
- Fire alarm and life safety systems compliant with NFPA standards
- Advanced lighting controls for energy efficiency and ergonomics
- Emergency egress and area classification lighting
- Grounding and lightning protection systems
Power Quality and Process Integration
- Clean power systems for sensitive analytical and manufacturing equipment
- Electrical noise mitigation and harmonic filtering
- Voltage regulation to eliminate fluctuations that could impact research results
- Load analysis and power factor optimization
- Integration with building automation and process control systems
Engineered Around Your Process
We understand that electrical infrastructure must serve your facility’s core mission. Power interruptions (even momentary ones) can lead to significant losses in research and manufacturing batches, sometimes costing millions of dollars per incident.
Our designs prioritize reliability and redundancy where it matters most, while optimizing costs in non-critical areas. We work closely with your process engineers to understand equipment sensitivities, critical path operations, and production schedules to deliver electrical systems that protect your most valuable assets: your product and your people.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
Electrical systems represent one of the largest operational expenses in life sciences facilities. Our energy-focused approach delivers measurable cost savings:
- Utility cost optimization: Strategic management through load management, power factor correction, and demand response.
- Utility rebate program navigation: Assisting clients in offsetting capital costs of high-efficiency equipment.
- LED lighting retrofits: Implementation of occupancy and daylight harvesting controls.
- Variable frequency drive (VFD) integration: Enhancing motor efficiency across the facility.
- Real-time energy monitoring: Providing ongoing operational insight for corporate ESG commitments.
Rigorous Compliance and Standards
Our designs adhere strictly to local, national, and international codes, ensuring safety, operability, and regulatory compliance:
- National Electrical Code (NEC) and local amendments
- NFPA fire and life safety standards
- IEEE power quality and grounding standards
- OSHA workplace safety requirements
- FDA cGMP electrical requirements for pharmaceutical facilities
- ISPE Baseline Guides for life sciences facilities
Technology-Enabled Design
Our team leverages industry-leading tools and methodologies:
- Building Information Modeling (BIM): Used for 3D coordination and clash detection.
- Revit and AutoCAD: For detailed design documentation.
- SKM PowerTools: For coordination, short circuit, and arc flash hazard analysis.
- AGi32 and Visual: For advanced lighting design and calculations.
Full Lifecycle Partnership
Our commitment extends beyond design:
- Conceptual planning and feasibility studies
- Detailed design and construction documentation
- Construction administration and shop drawing review
- Field engineering support during installation
- Commissioning and start-up assistance to ensure systems perform as designed
- As-built documentation for operations and maintenance teams
Our integrated approach ensures that electrical systems do not just meet specifications. They enable your facility to operate reliably, efficiently, and safely.
