{"@attributes":{"version":"2.0"},"channel":{"title":"Burns & McDonnell Blog","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com","description":"Burns & McDonnell Blog","language":"en-us","pubDate":"Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:27:33 GMT","item":[{"title":"How Early Engagement and Integrated Teaming De-Risk Substation Projects","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/how-early-engagement-and-integrated-teaming-de-risk-substation-projects","description":"
\n \"How <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

In the world of complex energy infrastructure, the traditional path for delivering substation projects, featuring a sequential handoff from design to procurement to construction, is filled with potential challenges. Each transition has potential for misalignment, rework and cost growth, adding layers of risk that can jeopardize project success.<\/p> \n

By shifting critical decisions upstream through early engineering engagement and leveraging integrated teams, the risk profile of a project can be fundamentally changed. When an EPC firm like Burns & McDonnell can team early with internal construction partners like AZCO, it is able to do more than just design for constructability \u2014 it can unlock alternative delivery solutions that offer greater certainty in cost, schedule and quality.<\/p>","category":["Construction","Power"],"pubDate":"Thu, 18 Jun 2026 12:00:02 GMT","author":"bwells@burnsmcd.com (Brent Wells)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/how-early-engagement-and-integrated-teaming-de-risk-substation-projects"},{"title":"When Launches Fail: Lessons From the New Glenn Launch Pad Explosion","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/when-launches-fail-lessons-from-the-new-glenn-launch-pad-explosion","description":"

\n \"Construction <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

\u201cSpace is hard, but worth it.\u201d \u2014 Richard Branson, Virgin Galactic Founder<\/em><\/p>","category":["Construction","Manufacturing & Industrial","Engineering","Government & Military"],"pubDate":"Wed, 17 Jun 2026 18:49:32 GMT","author":"rppruss@burnsmcd.com (Richard Pruss)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/when-launches-fail-lessons-from-the-new-glenn-launch-pad-explosion"},{"title":"Fit for Purpose: Matching the Tool to the Task","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/fit-for-purpose-matching-the-tool-to-the-task","description":"

\n \"Fit <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

 <\/p> \n

When projects tighten up, the default response can be to go bigger. Add more people. Push a harder schedule. Layer on more process. Pull in a larger tool, system or delivery model and hope scale solves the problem.<\/p>","category":["Construction","Power"],"pubDate":"Tue, 02 Jun 2026 14:33:03 GMT","author":"mwagner@burnsmcd.com (Mike Wagner)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/fit-for-purpose-matching-the-tool-to-the-task"},{"title":"A Smarter Delivery Model for Utility Communications Infrastructure","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/a-smarter-delivery-model-for-utility-communications-infrastructure","description":"

\n \"A <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

Numerous trends have come together to push more intelligence to the edge of the power system, including distributed energy resources, electrification, grid modernization and reliability expectations. As utilities are connecting more field assets, transmission and distribution grids are moving away from one-way power delivery and periodic monitoring and toward a more dynamic network that requires real-time visibility, control and coordination. Communications networks are a core part of how utilities monitor, control and coordinate critical infrastructure in real time.<\/p> \n

Many utilities already see long-term value in private LTE. As more utilities select private LTE as part of their comprehensive utility communications strategy, the question has shifted to execution. This has become an important strategic decision point, as the complexity of deployment is fundamentally different than traditional utility communications systems and is still tied directly to critical infrastructure reliability.<\/p>","category":["Power","Telecommunications"],"pubDate":"Thu, 28 May 2026 12:00:03 GMT","author":"jhoward@burnsmcd.com (Jarad C. Howard)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/a-smarter-delivery-model-for-utility-communications-infrastructure"},{"title":"Implementation and the Operational Realities of Grid Modernization","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/implementation-and-the-operational-realities-of-grid-modernization","description":"

\n \"Implementation <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

The push to modernize the nation\u2019s power grid has created a complex marketplace. Faced with the limitations of aging infrastructure and the promise of a smarter grid, many utilities are navigating a landscape in which technology providers are increasingly specializing in their core competencies. Such a landscape presents an opportunity for utilities to build a comprehensive partnership strategy, one that addresses the full scope of a modernization project, from initial concept to long-term operational success.<\/p> \n

The shift toward specialization is a natural progression. While the software development process is a tried and true, repeatable solution, implementation must consider the nuances specific to each utility\u2019s systems, grid architecture and operational processes, and therefore must be performed by teams that understand those real-world considerations. It brings to light the distinct roles of a software developer versus a strategic implementation partner. A vendor\u2019s experience lies with its software, and its focus is on data and system performance. An implementation partner\u2019s focus is on the real-world application of that system within a utility\u2019s unique operational environment. Recognizing this distinction is crucial, as a modernization program is much more than a single project. The software is just one piece of the solution; it must work in a way that complements the existing business and, ultimately, elevates it.<\/p> \n

A single decision made in an implementation silo can trigger a cascade of unforeseen business consequences. This can lead to a scenario in which a new system, while functioning exactly as designed, conflicts with established business processes. Thereby creating an operational disconnect as the technology and the team\u2019s workflow are not fully aligned, requiring unforeseen adjustments and creating inefficiencies.<\/p>","category":["Power","Telecommunications"],"pubDate":"Thu, 14 May 2026 16:05:17 GMT","author":"jaestel@burnsmcd.com (Jason Estel)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/implementation-and-the-operational-realities-of-grid-modernization"},{"title":"Why Multiday Storage Could Be the Next Frontier for Grid Reliability","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/why-multiday-storage-could-be-the-next-frontier-for-grid-reliability","description":"

\n \"Why <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

The pressures of integrating renewable energy sources and powering the exponential increase in high-demand data centers are testing the limits of traditional power systems. While short-duration lithium-ion batteries have been instrumental in managing daily energy fluctuations, other technologies may become a part of the solution.<\/p> \n

For true grid resilience, especially during extended periods of low wind or sun, a new class of technology is emerging: multiday storage (MDS). These systems are designed to deliver power for days, not hours, providing the reliability that utilities and data center operators need to confidently navigate current power demands.<\/p>","category":"Power","pubDate":"Tue, 12 May 2026 13:37:23 GMT","author":"pscrogginwicker@burnsmcd.com (Tisha Scroggin-Wicker, PE)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/why-multiday-storage-could-be-the-next-frontier-for-grid-reliability"},{"title":"The Proposed 2026 Texas MSGP Renewal Drives Early Compliance Planning","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/the-proposed-2026-texas-msgp-renewal-drives-early-compliance-planning","description":"

\n \"The <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) has proposed updates to the Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) TXR050000, which will be reissued this summer. These changes will impact facilities with existing MSGP coverage and new facilities that must obtain coverage. Early evaluation and planning are essential to maintaining compliance when the proposed updates take effect on August 14, 2026. <\/p>","category":["Environmental","Water"],"pubDate":"Mon, 11 May 2026 16:47:57 GMT","author":"mtaylor3@burnsmcd.com (Madison Taylor)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/the-proposed-2026-texas-msgp-renewal-drives-early-compliance-planning"},{"title":"Tuck Program Aligns Success for Strategic Partners","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/tuck-program-aligns-success-for-strategic-partners","description":"

\n \"Tuck <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

Project success in engineering and construction often builds upon alignment \u2014 across teams, goals and the partners who help bring complex projects to life.<\/p>","category":"Strategic Partners","pubDate":"Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:10:56 GMT","author":"webmaster@burnsmcd.com (The Burns & McDonnell Team)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/tuck-program-aligns-success-for-strategic-partners"},{"title":"Partnership in Practice: Making a Difference in the Details","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/partnership-in-practice-making-a-difference-in-the-details","description":"

\n \"Partnership <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

Four years ago, Natalie Horyna stepped into a value engineering workshop with a new title and a clear sense of uncertainty. She had recently moved from design into project management within the Aviation & Federal Group of Burns & McDonnell, and the role was still taking shape.<\/p>","category":"Strategic Partners","pubDate":"Tue, 28 Apr 2026 15:07:13 GMT","author":"webmaster@burnsmcd.com (The Burns & McDonnell Team)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/partnership-in-practice-making-a-difference-in-the-details"},{"title":"Ready, Set, Innovate: Planning for Change Builds Strategic Success","link":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/ready-set-innovate-planning-for-change-builds-strategic-success","description":"

\n \"Ready, <\/a> \n<\/div> \n

In a business environment characterized by volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity \u2014 ranging from hurricane-force financial winds to persistent voids of information \u2014 supplier readiness is key to sustaining success.<\/p>","category":"Strategic Partners","pubDate":"Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:59:15 GMT","author":"webmaster@burnsmcd.com (The Burns & McDonnell Team)","guid":"https:\/\/blog.burnsmcd.com\/ready-set-innovate-planning-for-change-builds-strategic-success"}]}}