GAOA Benchmark Solar Water System Updates HLCNF

Summary (Newest Update)

Background The GAOA Benchmark Solar Water System Update is a project initiated by the U.S. Forest Service, specifically for the Rocky Mountain Ranger District within the Helena-Lewis & Clark National Forest. The purpose of this contract is to remodel an existing solar water system at the Benchmark Campground, ensuring compliance with NEC 2020 codes and enhancing the operational efficiency of the aging solar/batteries/inverter system. Work Details The project involves updating an existing solar water system that currently includes ten Kyocera 50-watt solar modules, a Morningstar PhotoStar-30 solar charge controller, a Trace DR series inverter, and ten Deka brand 12-volt 8G8D gel batteries. The work includes: A) Installation of a new pole-mounted solar array on galvanized steel poles. B) Removal of existing inverter and solar controller components from the pumphouse. C) Expansion of the concrete pad for the power shed. D) Installation of new inverter and batteries in an owner-supplied fiberglass power shed. E) Trenching and installation of wire and conduit to buildings. F) Standard AC wiring of existing buildings while reusing as much conduit as possible. G) Installation of a generator connection point for supplemental power if needed. Place of Performance Rocky Mountain Ranger District, Lewis and Clark County, MT; specifically at Benchmark Cabin located on Benchmark Road (USFS Road 235), Augusta, MT.