Overview
Atwater Substation is an operational electrical substation in California, owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, serving the local grid.
Atwater Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Atwater, California, United States. Owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), it plays a key role in the regional power distribution network. As a substation, it steps down high-voltage transmission electricity to lower voltages suitable for local distribution. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ensuring grid reliability and compliance with mandatory standards. PG&E's substations typically handle voltages ranging from 60 kV to 500 kV, though specific voltage levels for Atwater Substation are not detailed. The substation is part of California's extensive electrical infrastructure, which supports a diverse mix of generation sources including renewable energy. Atwater Substation contributes to the stability and reliability of the local power grid, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the Atwater area. Its operational status ensures continuous electricity supply, supporting community needs and economic activities. The substation's location in California's Central Valley places it in a region with growing energy demand and increasing integration of solar and wind power.
Environmental context
The substation is located in the Central Valley of California, an area with significant agricultural activity and a Mediterranean climate. The region faces challenges related to air quality and water availability, which influence energy demand patterns. Electrical infrastructure like Atwater Substation must accommodate seasonal peaks from agricultural irrigation and summer cooling loads. The facility's operation aligns with California's ambitious renewable energy goals, requiring grid upgrades to integrate distributed solar and wind resources.
Frequently asked questions
Atwater Substation is located in Atwater, California, United States, at coordinates 37.359925, -120.615316.
Atwater Substation is owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), a major utility serving northern and central California.
Atwater Substation is an electrical substation that steps down high-voltage transmission electricity to lower voltages for local distribution to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.
Atwater Substation operates under NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and compliance with mandatory reliability requirements.
Atwater Substation helps maintain reliable electricity supply in the Central Valley, supporting agricultural, residential, and commercial loads, and facilitating integration of renewable energy sources.