Overview
Black Eagle Crystal Ridge Substation is an operational substation owned by Sacramento Municipal Utility District in Sacramento County, California, operating at 69 kV.
Black Eagle Crystal Ridge Substation is an electrical substation located in Sacramento County, California, United States. Owned and operated by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), this facility plays a key role in the regional power distribution network at a 69 kV voltage level, typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations serving urban and suburban areas. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards for the bulk power system. As part of SMUD's infrastructure, it adheres to California's grid management requirements and integrates with the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC) regional entity. The 69 kV voltage level indicates a medium-voltage substation that steps down power from higher transmission voltages for local distribution. This substation supports the electrical infrastructure for the surrounding communities in Sacramento County, contributing to grid stability and reliability. Its operational status ensures continued service to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the area. The facility's location within an urbanizing region underscores its importance in meeting growing electricity demand while maintaining system resilience.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in an urbanizing area of Sacramento County, where land use transitions from agricultural to residential and commercial developments. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential noise from transformers, which are managed through standard mitigation practices. The facility's design and maintenance consider local environmental regulations to minimize impact on nearby ecosystems and communities.
Frequently asked questions
Black Eagle Crystal Ridge Substation is located in Sacramento County, California, United States, at coordinates 38.723498, -121.382910.
The substation is owned and operated by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), a public utility serving the Sacramento area.
The substation operates at 69 kV (69,000 volts), which is a common voltage for sub-transmission and distribution substations.
As part of the US bulk power system, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, as well as California state grid requirements.
A 69 kV substation typically steps down higher transmission voltages (e.g., 115 kV or 230 kV) to distribution voltages for local delivery to homes and businesses, ensuring reliable electricity supply.