#United States #San Jose #PG&E #Smart Wires

PG&E Partners with Smart Wires for Enhanced Grid Reliability

In a significant development for energy infrastructure, Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has announced a collaborative project with Smart Wires to improve grid reliability and capacity in San Jose, California. With the growing energy demands from burgeoning data centers in the area, this partnership aims to sustain reliable power distribution while ensuring the infrastructure evolves to meet future demands.

The heart of this project lies in the integration of Smart Wires' advanced power flow control (APFC) technology, specifically through the deployment of its innovative SmartValve devices at PG&E's Los Esteros electric substation. This initiative is set to create an additional capacity exceeding 100 megawatts (MW), an essential boost given the projected rise in electricity requirements driven by the rapid expansion of data centers in the Alviso community.

Joanna Lohkamp, CEO of Smart Wires, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, "As the demand for data centers skyrockets, ensuring a reliable and efficient grid is more important than ever." The SmartValve devices will enhance PG&E's ability to manage power flow, alleviate thermal overloads, and redirect energy where it is needed most. By dynamically optimizing existing infrastructure, this technology not only addresses current capacity constraints but also offers a scalable solution for future grid enhancements.

The necessity for this enhancement is underscored by projections from the California Independent System Operator (CAISO), anticipating a load increase of up to 500 MW in the region to accommodate the growing presence of data centers. While a new transmission line is anticipated to be operational by 2032, immediate measures are required to ensure uninterrupted energy delivery beginning in 2025. Traditional options like reconductoring and energy storage were deemed impractical due to high costs and prolonged installation timelines. Instead, CAISO has identified the deployment of APFC technology as the most effective and timely solution.

The anticipated impacts of SmartValve technology are significant. By mitigating thermal overloads by up to 34%, it enables the delivery of an additional 100 MW of firm power using existing lines. Chad Dupuis, Principal Electrical Engineer at PG&E, noted, "Working with Smart Wires allows PGE to efficiently address projected capacity needs while maintaining high reliability for our customers." This collaboration signifies a commitment to pioneering innovative technologies that enhance the grid's flexibility and resilience.

Furthermore, the SmartValve technology provides a rapid and cost-effective approach to meeting surging electricity demands. Its quick deployment and adjustable nature mean that utilities can better manage capacity and adapt to fluctuating energy needs, as well as facilitate the integration of new power generation sources.

The modular and relocatable design of SmartValve offers further advantages, allowing it to be adjusted or expanded as grid requirements evolve. This capability ensures that once the new transmission line is available in 2032, the benefits of the SmartValve technology can continue to amplify the efficiency of energy distribution across the network.

Overall, the partnership between PG&E and Smart Wires marks a pivotal step in the modernization of electrical infrastructure in San Jose. As the push for enhanced grid reliability continues, the integration of cutting-edge technology will play a crucial role in shaping the future of energy delivery, supporting the vibrant growth of data centers, and ultimately facilitating a more sustainable and resilient energy ecosystem in the region.

For more information about PG&E and their services, explore their official website at pge.com. Likewise, to understand more about Smart Wires and their innovative solutions, visit smartwires.com.