Overview
Keswick Substation is an operational electrical substation in California, USA, owned by the Western Area Power Administration. It operates at 230 kV and 115 kV voltage levels, serving the regional power grid.
Keswick Substation is an electrical substation located in California, United States, owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA). The facility is currently operational and plays a role in the transmission of electricity within the region. As a substation, it is part of the larger electrical infrastructure that supports grid stability and power distribution. The substation operates at voltage levels of 230 kV and 115 kV, which are typical for high-voltage transmission and sub-transmission applications. These voltage levels indicate its role in connecting bulk power generation to local distribution networks. The facility is situated in a region that is part of the Western Interconnection, which is subject to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulation for transmission assets. Keswick Substation contributes to the reliability of the electrical grid in northern California. Its location near the Keswick Dam and the Sacramento River places it in an area with significant hydroelectric generation. The substation helps integrate renewable energy sources and ensures stable power supply to surrounding communities and industries.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a region with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The surrounding area includes the Keswick Reservoir and the Sacramento River, which support hydroelectric power generation. The facility's operation is subject to environmental regulations that address electromagnetic fields, oil spill containment, and wildlife protection. Its urban-rural interface location requires careful management of visual and noise impacts.
Frequently asked questions
Keswick Substation is located in California, United States, near the Keswick Dam and the Sacramento River, at coordinates 40.609853, -122.444182.
Keswick Substation operates at 230 kV and 115 kV, which are typical for high-voltage transmission and sub-transmission applications in the US power grid.
Keswick Substation is owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), a federal power marketing administration within the US Department of Energy.
As part of the US electrical grid, Keswick Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission assets, including voltage control and maintenance requirements.
Keswick Substation serves as a node in the transmission network, connecting hydroelectric generation from the Keswick Dam area to the broader Western Interconnection, helping to balance supply and demand.