Overview
San Mateo Substation is an operational electrical substation in California, United States, owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company. It handles voltages of 230 kV and 115 kV, serving the local grid.
San Mateo Substation is an operational electrical substation located in San Mateo, California, United States. Owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), the facility plays a key role in the regional transmission network, handling high-voltage electricity at 230 kV and 115 kV. As part of PG&E's extensive infrastructure, it supports the reliability of power delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the San Francisco Bay Area. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set standards for grid stability and reliability. With voltage levels typical of major transmission substations, San Mateo Substation is equipped with modern switchgear and automation systems compliant with ISO/IEC 61850 standards, ensuring efficient monitoring and control. The facility's dual-voltage capability allows it to interconnect different parts of the grid, enhancing flexibility and resilience. Environmentally, the substation is situated in an urbanized area, where its operation supports the growing energy demands of the region. By stepping down high-voltage transmission power for local distribution, it minimizes transmission losses and contributes to grid stability. PG&E's ongoing maintenance and upgrades help ensure the substation meets evolving reliability standards, supporting California's transition to a cleaner energy grid.
Environmental context
Located in an urban setting in San Mateo, California, the substation operates within a densely populated area with high electricity demand. Its voltage levels (230 kV and 115 kV) indicate a critical role in the regional transmission grid, requiring robust insulation and safety measures to minimize environmental impact. The facility's design and operation adhere to strict environmental regulations, including those related to electromagnetic fields and oil containment, to protect local ecosystems and communities.
Frequently asked questions
San Mateo Substation is located in San Mateo, California, United States, at coordinates 37.583008, -122.319243.
San Mateo Substation is owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), a major utility serving northern and central California.
San Mateo Substation handles voltages of 230 kV and 115 kV, typical for high-voltage transmission substations that interconnect different parts of the power grid.
As part of the US electrical grid, San Mateo Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and security.
By stepping down transmission voltages for local distribution, San Mateo Substation helps balance load and supply, reducing transmission losses and supporting reliable electricity delivery to the San Francisco Bay Area.