FPUA OKs roughly $2.59 million purchase of replacement transformers for Totten Substation

The Fort Pierce Utilities Authority board approved a staff recommendation on July 7 to purchase two larger transformers for the Totten Substation at a contract price staff said is about $2,589,000 for both units and installation.

A presenter explaining the item told the board the existing transformers are operating at approximately 85% of their rated capacity and that replacing them with larger units will provide additional capacity and operational flexibility as residential and commercial developments move forward in the southwest portion of the service territory. "These transformers are currently operating at approximately 85% of their rated capacity," the presenter said.

Staff said the purchase would be funded from the 2026 bond proceeds plan; they expect to seek a tax-exempt revenue bond later in 2026 to cover several large capital needs. The presenter said the quoted price includes installation and recommended buying from the existing manufacturer to maintain compatibility and spare-parts commonality.

Board members asked about the service area served by Totten (noting proximity to the Turnpike and I‑95, and service to areas near Lake Jenkins and Selvitz) and discussed operating targets: staff said they aim for roughly 50% loaded capacity per transformer so a single transformer can be taken offline for maintenance, and that adding a planned third transformer later would reduce the per-unit load to about 33%.

A board member moved to approve the purchase as presented; the board called the roll and recorded affirmative votes from members present.

Actions taken: the board approved the transformer purchase; staff said a construction item for adding a third transformer will be brought forward at a future meeting.