Overview
Northern Receiving Station is a 230/115 kV substation in Santa Clara, California, operated by Silicon Valley Power. It serves as a key node in the local electrical grid.
Northern Receiving Station is a high-voltage substation located in Santa Clara, California, United States. Operated by Silicon Valley Power, the facility operates at 230 kV and 115 kV, placing it in the medium-to-high voltage range typical of transmission-level substations that interconnect regional power systems. The substation's dual voltage levels (230 kV and 115 kV) facilitate the step-down of bulk power from transmission lines to sub-transmission or distribution networks. As part of Silicon Valley Power's infrastructure, it supports the electric reliability needs of Santa Clara, a city in the heart of Silicon Valley. The facility is subject to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulation, ensuring grid stability and compliance with North American electric reliability requirements. Located in an urbanized area with high technology industry concentration, Northern Receiving Station plays a critical role in maintaining power quality and supply continuity for commercial, industrial, and residential customers. Its strategic position within the regional grid underscores its importance to the local economy and community resilience.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in an urban environment within Santa Clara, a city characterized by dense commercial and residential development. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential noise from transformers, which are managed through standard mitigation practices. The facility's location in a seismically active region necessitates robust engineering to withstand earthquakes, ensuring continued grid reliability.
Frequently asked questions
Northern Receiving Station is located in Santa Clara, California, United States, at coordinates 37.402040, -121.966236.
Northern Receiving Station operates at 230 kV and 115 kV, making it a high-voltage substation that connects transmission and sub-transmission networks.
Northern Receiving Station is operated by Silicon Valley Power, the municipal electric utility serving Santa Clara, California.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interstate transmission. Additionally, ISO/IEC 61850 standards may apply for substation automation.
As a 230/115 kV substation, Northern Receiving Station is critical for stepping down bulk power from transmission lines to distribution levels, ensuring reliable electricity supply to Santa Clara's residential, commercial, and industrial customers.