Why Modern Electrical Construction Matters for Artificial Lift and SWD Performance
Oilfield electrical work plays a direct role in keeping lift systems, SWDs, and tank batteries running every day. When the electrical foundation is weak, operators face more downtime, higher costs, and recurring failures that never seem to stop. In this conversation, John Serr, Head of Electrical at Design Solutions and Integration, shares what he sees in the field and why producers should take a closer look at how their sites are built. His insight shows why better electrical construction is not only smart, but necessary for long-term reliability.
This post explains the challenges operators face, the steps they can take to improve their sites, and the future of electrical work in a more automated oil field. The goal is simple: help teams make better decisions with clear, practical guidance.
Oilfield Electrical Challenges Operators Face
Oilfield teams want steady production, but electrical problems often get in the way. Some issues look like equipment failure, but the cause is deeper. Many sites were built fast or expanded over time. As a result, wiring, grounding, or controls may not match today’s demands. When this happens, operators start to see repeat trips, weak signals, and unexplained downtime.
John notes that the only way to know the true cause is to visit the site and troubleshoot. “You would not be able to accurately answer that question without getting to location,” he explains. Many problems come from a mix of aging equipment and poor original construction. If operators only patch the symptoms, the same failures return.
The risks grow over time. Crews face more callouts. Production slows. Breakdowns spread across systems that depend on each other, including artificial lift, SWDs, and tank batteries. In short, small issues grow into large costs when the electrical base is not built well.
A Practical Path Forward in Oilfield Electrical Construction
The best path forward is to upgrade sites with modern electrical construction practices. This means more than replacing parts. It requires building with the future in mind. John explains that producers should choose contractors with a proven background in both construction and automation. They must support today’s needs and prepare for tomorrow’s equipment.
He advises operators to confirm a contractor has in-house controls expertise, vendor partnerships, and the ability to design for long-term changes. Good documentation also matters. Clear drawings, redlines, and as-builts help crews troubleshoot and maintain equipment for years.
Training and credentials are another part of quality work. “They need to be licensed with the state of North Dakota as an electrical contractor,” John says. Masters, journeymen, and apprentices must all hold proper licenses. While producer-specific training varies, licensing is non-negotiable.
Modern electrical construction gives operators a clear starting point for better production. It sets up the entire site for easier upgrades, safer work, and fewer surprises.
The Transformation and Results
When producers invest in better electrical construction, the results show up across every system. Upgraded components work with current technology and give operators access to stronger support and parts availability. This improves artificial lift reliability and makes SWD operations more predictable. Tank battery upgrades also hold up better over time because the electrical system is designed to support modern equipment.
As automation grows, new electrical work becomes even more valuable. Many producers now rely on SCADA systems to cut down on travel time, reduce costs, and improve visibility in the field. John notes that updated transmitters, drives, PLCs, and safety devices make it possible for one person to monitor many sites at once. Crews only drive out when they are needed, which reduces overhead and keeps people safer.
The long-term value is clear. Better electrical construction reduces downtime and lowers operating costs. When sites run smoother, operators gain time, resources, and confidence in the field. This leads to stronger partnerships between producers and contractors who deliver clean, well-documented, future-ready installations.
Conclusion
Updated oilfield electrical construction gives producers a better way to manage their systems and reduce costly problems. John Serr’s guidance shows how modern work supports artificial lift, SWDs, tank batteries, and future automation. Strong foundations lead to fewer failures, predictable maintenance, and better long-term results.
When operators invest in quality construction today, they prepare their sites for the equipment of tomorrow. This shift delivers real value by cutting downtime and improving performance across the field.
About the Guest
John Serr is the Head of Electrical for Design Solutions and Integration. He has more than a decade of experience supporting artificial lift, automation, and electrical construction in the oil field. John works closely with crews and producers to improve site reliability and reduce downtime.
About the Company
Design Solutions & Integration (DSI) is a faith based, 100 percent employee-owned company with more than 25 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. With 125 employees and operations across the Bakken and Permian Basin, DSI delivers electrical, automation, fabrication, engineering, and turnkey field services. The company focuses on integrity, long term partnerships, and high-quality solutions built through a vertically integrated model. Learn more at www.relyondsi.com.