FKEC_BID_26-07_EXHIBIT_M_SWITCHING_BLACKOUT_DAYS_2026.pdf

This document is an exhibit of blackout dates for switching activities submitted by Florida Keys Electric Cooperative (FKEC) in connection with a hazard mitigation procurement for transmission structure replacement in the Florida Keys. The blackout dates identify periods during 2026 when switching operations cannot be performed, thereby constraining the project schedule and contractor workflow. The blackout periods include New Year's Day (January 1-2), Mini Season week (July 29-30), Florida Primary election (August 18), Fantasy Fest (October 16-25), Election Day (November 3), Thanksgiving week (November 23-27), Christmas week (December 21-25), and New Year's Eve (December 30-31). These restrictions necessitate careful project planning and scheduling to ensure that critical transmission circuit switching operations avoid these designated periods while maintaining the anticipated project completion date of June 1, 2027.

The blackout dates serve as operational constraints for contractors executing the transmission structure replacement project, which involves transferring existing 138 kV energized circuits to newly installed self-supported monopole structures. Contractors must coordinate work schedules to avoid switching activities during the identified blackout periods, which are driven by local events, elections, and seasonal considerations specific to the Florida Keys community. These scheduling constraints are particularly critical given that the project includes both land-based and water-based structures and requires maintaining continuous power delivery throughout construction, necessitating precise coordination of switching operations during approved windows. The exhibit demonstrates FKEC's commitment to balancing infrastructure modernization with community and operational priorities throughout the contract term.