Overview
Avena Substation is an operational electrical substation in California, United States, owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company. It operates at a voltage of 115 kV, serving the local grid.
Avena Substation is an operational electrical substation located in California, United States. Owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), it is part of the state's extensive electrical infrastructure network. The substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level facilities in the region. As a 115 kV substation, Avena Substation plays a role in stepping down higher transmission voltages for local distribution or interconnecting regional power flows. In the United States, substations of this voltage class are subject to reliability standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for grid stability. PG&E, as the operator, adheres to these standards to ensure safe and reliable operation. The substation is situated in a rural or semi-rural area of California, where it supports the electrical needs of surrounding communities and agricultural operations. Its location in the Central Valley region places it within an area that experiences high summer temperatures and significant energy demand for irrigation and cooling. The facility's operational status contributes to the resilience of the local grid, helping to maintain power supply stability in a region prone to wildfire risks and seasonal load variations.
Environmental context
The substation is located in California's Central Valley, a region with a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The area is primarily agricultural, with significant energy demand for irrigation pumps and processing facilities. The substation's 115 kV voltage level indicates it serves local distribution needs, and its rural location may reduce exposure to urban wildfire risks, though PG&E implements vegetation management and equipment upgrades to mitigate fire hazards. The facility's operation aligns with California's grid modernization efforts, including integration of renewable energy sources.
Frequently asked questions
Avena Substation is located in California, United States, at coordinates 37.842255, -121.054200. It is owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E).
Avena Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
Avena Substation is owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), a major utility serving northern and central California.
As part of the US electrical grid, Avena Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. PG&E also follows California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) requirements for safety and grid modernization.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down higher transmission voltages (e.g., 230 kV) to distribution levels (e.g., 12 kV) or interconnects local generation. It is critical for delivering electricity to residential, commercial, and agricultural customers in its service area.