Commissioning Services: Three Channels
There are three channels for finding commissioning services for high and low voltage switchgear: manufacturer commissioning services (the preferred choice, involving original factory engineers), commissioning by the installation unit (EPC or installation companies), and third-party commissioning agencies (specialized commissioning firms). Industry experts advise selecting a provider based on project requirements: manufacturer commissioning offers the highest authority (familiarity with products and drawings; costs may be included in the contract or billed separately); EPC contractors handle commissioning as part of the package (turnkey projects);
and third-party agencies provide independent, specialized services (often for acceptance assessments). Always engage qualified teams and ensure reports are signed off for acceptance.
Three Channels
- Manufacturer commissioning services: Commissioning by original factory engineers (protection settings, interlocking, testing); the authoritative first choice;
costs included in the contract (FAT/SAT) or billed separately; - Installation unit commissioning: Commissioning by EPC or installation companies (turnkey projects); ensures seamless integration with the construction phase;
- Third-party commissioning agencies: Specialized commissioning firms (independent acceptance, secondary commissioning); qualified teams issue commissioning reports;
- Comprehensive service providers: Power technical service companies (one-stop service covering commissioning, testing, and acceptance).
Selection Criteria
First, verify qualifications. Check the commissioning team’s credentials (qualifications for power facility testing, engineer certifications) and ensure reports are signed by authorized personnel.
Second, prioritize the manufacturer.
The manufacturer is the preferred choice for commissioning new switchgear (due to familiarity with products and drawings) and ensures continuity regarding warranty coverage.
Third, ensure report acceptance.
Commissioning reports (containing test data and setting sheets) must be signed off and archived for future reference.
Fourth, confirm costs.
Clarify commissioning fees (whether included in the contract or billed separately) and the scope of work (settings, testing, interlocking) in advance.
Pitfalls to Avoid
First, “commissioning without proper qualifications.”
Commissioning performed without the requisite electrical testing and inspection qualifications renders the report invalid.
A second issue is “omitted commissioning items”;
failure to conduct withstand voltage or interlocking tests results in a failed acceptance inspection.
A third issue is “missing reports”;
the absence of commissioning reports leaves no basis for warranty claims or acceptance verification.
Trends and Reminders
Commissioning is moving toward digitalization, with the use of electronic data (e.g., test report apps) and remote commissioning (via the Internet of Things) enhancing efficiency.
Users are advised to prioritize the original manufacturer, verify qualifications, and archive reports.
Professional commissioning ensures peace of mind during system operation.
