OVERVIEW

OWNER: Data Center
LOCATION: Los Lunas, NM
INDUSTRY SERVED: Data Centers
CAPABILITIES: Electrical

WHAT WE DID

B&D was selected as one of the electrical contractors for the VLL F16 Data Center Improvements (DCI) Program, initially under Hoffman Construction and now under Fortis Construction. Our presence at the data center site dates back to 2015, where we served as one of three electrical contractors supporting the original new-build phases — including both the VLL and VCN expansions. This sustained involvement has built a foundation of trust and deep familiarity with data center infrastructure, safety protocols, and construction methodologies, positioning us strongly for this next phase of retroactive improvements.

Unlike new-build construction, where systems are installed before facility activation, the DCI Program required highly specialized execution in an active, fully operational data center environment. B&D was tasked with delivering complex electrical upgrades while maintaining uninterrupted service and adhering to stringent access restrictions, noise limitations, and designated work-hour windows.

As part of the DCI Program, B&D performed the following key upgrades:

  • Generator Replacements: Upgraded four generators to 3.5-megawatt units, including all crane operations for generator replacement, upsizing conductors, and custom fabrication of steps and rails for the new units.
  • Power Distribution Enhancements: Installed new circuits, conduits, and cabling to support higher electrical loads driven by advanced networking hardware.
  • Rack Power Installations: Modified server rack PSUs to accommodate next-generation equipment.
  • Cooling System Support: Integrated new power feeds for expanded HVAC and precision cooling systems required for high-density server areas.
  • Live-System Execution: Delivered all upgrades with zero downtime, using coordinated scheduling and phased shutdowns only when absolutely necessary to align with the facility’s operational requirements.


To ensure operational consistency and clarity, B&D developed comprehensive, step-by-step work procedures encompassing thousands of installation details. These procedures were collaboratively refined and approved by the owner, the general contractors, and key subcontractors, ensuring stakeholder alignment at every stage.

B&D’s role in the DCI Program highlights our capabilities in high-tech, mission-critical electrical infrastructure projects. By leveraging a decade-long relationship with the site and prior construction phases, we were able to meet the owner’s evolving infrastructure needs with technical accuracy and minimal disruption. This project reflects our commitment to precision, safety, and the continued enhancement of one of the world’s most advanced data centers.