Overview
Ames Substation is an operational electrical substation owned by Pacific Gas and Electric Company in California, United States. It operates at 115 kV, serving the local grid.
Ames Substation is an operational electrical substation located in California, United States. Owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), it is a key node in the regional transmission network. The substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission or distribution-level infrastructure in the US. As part of PG&E's system, Ames Substation is subject to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulation for transmission assets. The 115 kV voltage level places it in the medium-voltage range, often used to distribute power from higher-voltage transmission lines to local distribution networks. The substation likely includes switchgear, transformers, and protection systems compliant with IEEE standards. The substation's location in California's Silicon Valley region means it supports a densely populated and economically vital area. Its role in maintaining grid stability and power quality is critical for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The facility contributes to PG&E's efforts to modernize the grid and integrate renewable energy sources.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in an urbanized area of California, where electrical infrastructure must balance reliability with environmental considerations. The region's Mediterranean climate and seismic activity require robust design and maintenance practices. PG&E's operations are subject to California's stringent environmental regulations, including those related to SF6 gas management and electromagnetic field (EMF) guidelines. The substation's location near residential and commercial zones necessitates careful noise and visual impact mitigation.
Frequently asked questions
Ames Substation is located in California, United States, at coordinates 37.417814, -122.067133. It is owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E).
Ames Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV (115,000 volts), which is a common sub-transmission voltage level in the United States.
Ames Substation is owned by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), a major investor-owned utility serving northern and central California.
As part of the US electrical grid, Ames Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. PG&E also adheres to California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) requirements.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down transmission voltage for distribution to local networks, ensuring reliable power delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.