Overview
Del Paso Substation is an operational electrical substation in California, United States, serving as a node in the regional power grid. It supports voltage transformation and distribution for the surrounding area.
Del Paso Substation is an operational electrical substation located in California, United States, near coordinates 38.202, -121.877. As a substation, it plays a critical role in the electrical infrastructure by stepping down transmission voltages to distribution levels for local consumers. The facility is part of the broader Western Interconnection grid, which is subject to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight. The substation's technical specifications are not detailed in available data, but typical substations in California operate at voltage levels ranging from 69 kV to 500 kV, depending on their role in the transmission or distribution network. Del Paso Substation likely includes switchgear, transformers, and protection systems compliant with IEEE and ISO/IEC 61850 standards for substation automation. Its location in an urban or suburban area suggests it serves a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial loads. Environmentally, the substation's operation involves minimal direct emissions but supports the integration of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, which are prevalent in California. The facility contributes to grid stability and reliability, enabling efficient power delivery to communities in the region. Its operational status ensures continued service to the local electrical infrastructure network.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in California's Central Valley, a region with a Mediterranean climate and significant agricultural activity. Electrical infrastructure in this area must accommodate seasonal demand peaks from irrigation and cooling. The facility's location near urban zones implies potential electromagnetic field considerations, though standard mitigation practices are employed. Its role in the grid supports the state's transition to cleaner energy sources.
Frequently asked questions
Del Paso Substation is located in California, United States, near coordinates 38.201984, -121.876522.
Del Paso Substation is an electrical substation that transforms voltage levels and distributes electricity within the power grid.
The operator of Del Paso Substation is not publicly listed, but substations in California are typically operated by investor-owned utilities like Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) or municipal utilities.
As part of the US electrical grid, Del Paso Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, as well as state-level requirements from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
Substations like Del Paso are critical for stepping down high transmission voltages to lower distribution voltages, ensuring safe and reliable electricity delivery to homes and businesses.