Team performing planned maintenance at Pioneer Generation Station

The reciprocating engines at Basin Electric's Pioneer Generation Station Phase III near Williston, North Dakota, hit 32,000 run-hours - a major milestone, which triggered the need for planned preventative maintenance.

The third phase of Pioneer Generation Station started commercial operation in 2017 and features 12 natural gas-based reciprocating engines, each with a generating capacity of 9.3 megawatts. Minor engine maintenance is scheduled in increments of 2,000 run-hours, while major maintenance is scheduled in increments of 16,000 run-hours.

"To put the significance of 32,000 hours into perspective, say you drive a diesel truck 50 miles per one-run-hour - 32,000 run-hours would equate to over 1.5 million miles for that engine," said Joe Fiedler, Basin Electric manager of Distributed Generation. "We're happy with the reciprocating engine performance, and by following the manufacturers recommendations, we're hoping to extend the longevity of these engines minimizing the need to invest in new equipment."

What happens during this major maintenance event?

Each engine is turned off in a rotation to avoid having all engines down at the same time. The engine in rotation is completely taken apart and reassembled with refurbished or new parts. During this 32,000-hour major maintenance the exhaust catalyst, which controls the emissions of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, is also replaced to ensure that emissions are kept in compliance. The entire maintenance process on one engine takes approximately five to six weeks to complete.

"Performing maintenance on Basin Electric's generation station equipment and transmission equipment is crucial to serving our members," said Fiedler. "This is a proactive approach that ensures all equipment is running optimally, minimizing unexpected breakdowns and risks of unplanned outages. This ultimately maintains Basin Electric's commitment to providing reliable, accessible power to our members."

The 32,000 run-hour maintenance began in November 2023 and will be ongoing throughout 2024.