Electrical Project Management

ISO Approved

Let’s plan your electrical project success together

As an ISO Approved company, with an integrated Quality Management System certified to ISO 9001:2015 and ISO 14001:2015, all of our Electrical projects are executed and controlled following a clearly defined set of quality management procedures according to our QMS. Our systems are comprehensive in nature and cover all elements of our business activities as well as project completion.

We provide our clients with electrical project solutions, including estimating, engineering, and delivery by an in-house team, which leads to projects that finish on time and on budget.

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(02) 8577 3000

Complete turnkey solution from application to energization

Wilken can streamline your project process by using our own in-house planners, designers and construction team to maintain end-to-end accountability and avoid costly delays.

Private High Voltage

Wilken can provide Private high-voltage transmission lines, substations, and other critical components of the electrical grid.

Electrical Construction

We take great pride in providing quality electrical construction services to builders and electrical contractors throughout NSW.

Engineering & Design

Our Engineering and Design services encompass the generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power.

Electrical Maintenance

With an average of 70 staff, we have the team you need to handle your essential operation and maintenance requirements.

Energy Infrastructure

Our highly skilled team provides a complete range of Utility and Energy infrastructure associated services.

Project Management

We offer a complete turnkey solution from initial application for supply through to energization including project management.

Completed Projects

Delivering impactful electrical construction services

Over 2000 projects completed across Domestic, Commercial, Industrial, Government Institutions, Shopping Centers, Factories, Hospitals, Medical Institutions & Defence.

John Holland Pty Ltd
University of Sydney
Establishment of a Triple 1500kVA Suburban (Non CBD) Surface Chamber Substation for the University of Sydney.
The Westmead Institute for Medical Research
Westmead Children’s Hospital
Installation of Helipad Lighting incl FATO, Landing and direction take off lighting, TLOF Perimeter lighting and Windsock installation.
Mirvac Constructions Pty Ltd
Australian Technology Park
Supply and installation of over one hundred and eighty smart poles, together with sitewide power & communication.

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Great team to work with!

Wilken’s diligence and proactive approach through the project is what ensured the critical HV feeder installation went as smoothly as it did. You have been a great team to work with and look forward to working with yourselves again.

Neil Donald
Associate Director – Area 3

Further Information

What is Electrical Project Management?

Electrical project management (EPM) is a specialised field of project management focused on planning, executing, and completing projects involving electrical systems. It encompasses a wide range of activities, including:

Design and planning: Collaborating with engineers and architects to develop electrical schematics, blueprints, and load calculations.
Procurement: Sourcing electrical components, materials, and specialized equipment.
Scheduling: Creating detailed timelines encompassing installation, testing, and inspection phases.
Budgeting: Estimating costs, tracking expenses, and ensuring projects stay on budget.
Team Management: Overseeing electricians, contractors, and other project personnel.
Safety and Compliance: Rigorously adhering to electrical codes, safety regulations, and industry standards.
Risk Management: Identifying potential hazards, delays, or changes in scope with proactive mitigation strategies.
Client Communication: Providing regular progress updates, addressing concerns, and managing expectations.

Electrical project managers are vital in ensuring electrical projects’ smooth, efficient, and safe completion across residential, commercial, and industrial contexts.

The Key Skills of a Successful Electrical Project Manager

Successful electrical project managers possess a blend of technical expertise, organizational skills, and leadership qualities. Here’s a breakdown of essential skills:

Technical Knowledge: A solid understanding of electrical theory, principles of installation, and the ability to interpret electrical schematics and blueprints is crucial.
Regulations and Codes: In-depth knowledge of relevant national, state, and local electrical codes and safety standards is necessary to ensure compliance and avoid costly rework.
Project Management Fundamentals: EPM requires mastery of project planning, scheduling, budgeting, resource allocation, and risk management methodologies.
Problem-Solving: Electrical projects often present unforeseen challenges. Strong problem-solving skills help quickly analyse issues and implement effective solutions.
Communication: Clear and effective communication with clients, engineers, electricians, inspectors, and other stakeholders is paramount for project success.
Leadership: The ability to motivate teams, delegate tasks, resolve conflicts, and maintain a positive work environment is critical for leading an electrical project team.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail ensures electrical installations meet specifications, reducing errors and safety risks.
Adaptability: Electrical projects can be dynamic. Successful project managers must be flexible and able to adjust plans in response to changing circumstances.

These skills can be developed through education, relevant certifications, and practical on-the-job experience in electrical project environments.

Tools and Techniques for Effective Electrical Project Management

Electrical project managers leverage a variety of tools and techniques to streamline processes, ensure accuracy, and enhance overall project outcomes. Here are some of the most common:

Project Management Software

General-purpose: Tools like Asana, Trello, and Monday.com offer customisable task boards, timelines, and collaboration features.
Specialised: Software like MS Project or Procore provide advanced features for complex electrical project scheduling, resource allocation, and cost tracking.

Gantt Charts

These visual representations of project timelines help track task dependencies, identify critical paths, and visualise project progress.

Risk Assessment Tools

Risk matrices help identify and prioritise potential hazards or delays, allowing project managers to develop proactive mitigation strategies.

Change Management Processes

Formalized change order systems help manage scope changes while minimizing cost overruns and schedule delays.

Electrical Design Software

Software like AutoCAD Electrical assists in creating detailed electrical schematics, load calculations, and wiring diagrams.

Communication Platforms

Tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or email facilitate efficient communication among team members, stakeholders, and clients.

Resource Management Tools

Inventory tracking systems and procurement software help manage materials, equipment, and labour effectively.

Reporting and Analytics

Regular project reports and dashboards provide essential insights into project health, allowing managers to identify areas for improvement.

The right tools and techniques support successful electrical project management by promoting visibility, collaboration, and informed decision-making.

Best Practices for Electrical Projects

Adhering to specific best practices can significantly increase the chances of success in electrical projects. Here are some key recommendations:

Detailed Planning: Invest time upfront in thorough planning, including clear scope definition, accurate load calculations, and material procurement plans. This prevents costly rework and delays later.
Strong Communication: Openly communicate with clients, engineers, contractors, and your team. Proactive communication minimises misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page.
Safety Focus: Prioritise safety at every stage. Establish clear safety protocols, conduct regular hazard assessments, and ensure all team members receive proper training.
Risk Mitigation: Don’t wait for problems to arise. Proactively identify risks, assess their likelihood and impact, and have mitigation plans in place.
Embrace Change: Electrical projects rarely go exactly according to plan. Be adaptable, maintain a solutions-oriented mindset, and implement change management processes effectively.
Document Everything: Keep detailed records of project progress, changes, decisions, and communications. This is invaluable for dispute resolution and for improving future project planning.
Compliance Adherence: Ensure strict adherence to electrical codes, safety regulations, and industry standards. Non-compliance can lead to fines, delays, and safety hazards.
Continuous Learning: The electrical industry evolves. Stay updated on new technologies, regulations, and best practices through professional development and industry resources.

By following these best practices, electrical project managers can improve project outcomes, increase client satisfaction, and ensure safe and successful installations.

Overcoming Common Challenges in Electrical Projects

Even with meticulous planning, electrical projects often encounter challenges. Here’s how to address some common hurdles:

Scope Creep: Uncontrolled changes to project scope can cause delays and budget overruns. Mitigate this by having clear change management processes and ensuring thorough upfront planning to define project requirements.
Scheduling Conflicts: Delays with other trades or unexpected problems can throw off electrical project timelines. Maintain open communication with other project stakeholders, incorporate buffer time into schedules, and develop contingency plans.
Material Shortages: Long lead times or supply chain issues can disrupt progress. Plan material procurement early, identify alternative suppliers, and maintain contingency reserves where possible.
Code Changes: Updates to electrical codes can complicate compliance. Stay vigilant about regulatory changes, factor them into project planning, and consult with inspectors as needed.
Unforeseen Issues: Hidden conditions or unexpected equipment malfunctions can occur. Build flexibility into budgets and schedules, maintain strong communication with the client, and develop swift problem-solving strategies.
Communication Breakdown: Poor communication can lead to errors and disputes. Establish clear communication protocols, hold regular project meetings, and document all decisions and agreements.

Experienced electrical project managers anticipate challenges. Proactive planning, open communication, and the ability to adapt quickly are essential to overcome obstacles and keep projects moving forward.