Overview
Monta Vista Substation (lower yard) is an operational electrical substation in California, owned by Pacific Gas and Electric Company. It operates at 115 kV and 60 kV, serving the local grid.
Monta Vista Substation (lower yard) is an operational electrical substation located in California, United States. Owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), it plays a key role in the regional transmission and distribution network. The substation handles voltage levels of 115 kV and 60 kV, typical for sub-transmission and distribution applications in the US grid. As part of PG&E's infrastructure, this substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. The facility is situated in a seismically active region, requiring robust engineering to ensure grid stability. Substations like this one are critical for stepping down high-voltage power from transmission lines to lower voltages for local distribution. The Monta Vista Substation supports the electrical needs of the surrounding community, contributing to grid reliability and resilience. Its location in California, a state with ambitious renewable energy goals, means it may integrate power from solar and wind sources. The substation's operational status ensures continued service to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the area.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a seismically active region of California, requiring earthquake-resistant design and maintenance. Its urban setting near Silicon Valley means it supports high-density electrical demand while potentially interfacing with renewable energy sources. The facility's voltage levels (115 kV and 60 kV) indicate a role in both transmission and distribution, with environmental considerations including electromagnetic field management and oil containment for transformers.
Frequently asked questions
Monta Vista Substation (lower yard) is located in California, United States, at coordinates 37.324003, -122.073262.
The substation operates at 115 kV and 60 kV, typical for sub-transmission and distribution in the US grid.
The substation is owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), a major utility in California.
US substations must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and security.
As a key node in PG&E's network, it steps down high-voltage power for local distribution, supporting residential, commercial, and industrial customers.