Overview
UC Davis Substation is an operational electrical substation in California, owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company, operating at 115 kV.
UC Davis Substation is an operational electrical substation located in California, United States. It is owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), a major investor-owned utility serving northern and central California. The substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, classifying it as a sub-transmission or distribution-level facility within the regional power grid. As part of PG&E's extensive network, the substation is subject to regulatory oversight by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. The 115 kV voltage level is typical for distributing power from larger transmission lines to local distribution networks, serving urban and suburban areas. PG&E's infrastructure is critical for maintaining grid stability in California, especially given the state's diverse climate and energy demands. The substation supports the electrical infrastructure for the University of California, Davis campus and surrounding communities. Its role in the grid is essential for ensuring reliable power supply to educational, research, and residential facilities. The substation's operational status and location in a seismically active region underscore the importance of robust design and maintenance practices to mitigate risks from natural events.
Environmental context
Located in California's Central Valley, the substation operates in a region with hot, dry summers and mild winters, which influences electricity demand patterns, particularly for air conditioning. The area is also prone to seismic activity, requiring substation equipment to be designed for earthquake resilience. The substation's proximity to agricultural and urban areas means its operations must balance reliability with environmental considerations, such as minimizing electromagnetic field impacts and ensuring safe wildlife interactions.
Frequently asked questions
UC Davis Substation is located in California, United States, near the University of California, Davis campus. Its coordinates are approximately 38.53° N, 121.75° W.
UC Davis Substation operates at 115 kV (115,000 volts), which is a common voltage for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
UC Davis Substation is owned and operated by Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E), a major utility serving northern and central California.
As part of the US power grid, UC Davis Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and is regulated by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for safety and operational practices.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission lines (e.g., 230 kV) for distribution to local networks, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers. It is critical for grid reliability and load balancing.