The Fort Knox Directorate of Public Works will conduct an energy Black Start Exercise Wednesday, April 13 to test the post’s decentralized power generation systems.
• All commercial power from Louisville Gas & Electric will be shut off at 6 a.m.
• All areas of post – with the exception of some outlying range areas – will experience power outages at this time.
• It is anticipated that the outages will last no more than 15 minutes; however, crews will be on hand to monitor, identify and rapidly troubleshoot any issues that may result.
• The test will also allow proof of operation of dedicated building generators and emergency lighting systems.
• Fort Knox is scheduled to operate on its own power until external power from LG&E is turned back on at 2 p.m.
o It is possible that another power outage or “blink” could occur at this time.
Key points:
1. Avoid using electrical equipment from 5:55-6:15 a.m.
a. Do not use a treadmill, electric oven/stove, washer, dryer, etc. during this time.
b. If particularly concerned about any electrical equipment, consider turning them off in advance and back on when power is reestablished.
c. Reset electric clocks to the proper time after 6:15 a.m.
2. If power remains off for more than a 15-minute duration period:
a. If living in a Knox Hills neighborhood: Report the outage to Knox Hills maintenance at 502-799-6565.
b. Otherwise, call the DPW emergency work order desk at 502-624-1171.
3. Do not use elevators from 5:55-6:15 a.m.
4. Use particular caution during the aforementioned times when:
a. Approaching traffic lights and driving through intersections
b. Walking in areas that could become very dark without lighting
5. Heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC)
a. Power outages/blinks can "catch" HVAC equipment at the wrong time and cause the equipment to lock itself out to protect vulnerable components from being damaged. If HVAC systems do not begin producing cool air (or warm air if it is set to heating on April 13), report it to Knox Hills maintenance (if in Housing) at 502-799-6565 or the DPW emergency work order desk at 502-624-1171.
This exercise is vital to identifying any power systems issues and ensuring that the post can operate independent from the external energy grid when needed.
Everyone’s support, patience and understanding are appreciated.
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