Earthquake Evaluation of a Substation Network

by Edward N. Matsuda, Pacific Gas and Electric, San Francisco, United States,
William U. Savage, Pacific Gas and Electric, San Francisco, United States,
K. Keith Williams, Pacific Gas and Electric, San Francisco, United States,
Gerald C. Laguens, Pacific Gas and Electric, San Francisco, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Lifeline Earthquake Engineering

Abstract:

The impact of the occurrence of a large, damaging earthquake on a regional electric power system is a function of the geographical distribution of strong shaking, the vulnerability of various types of electric equipment located within the affected region, and operational resources available to maintain or restore electric system functionality. Experience from numerous worldwide earthquake occurrences has shown that seismic damage to high-voltage substation equipment is typically the reason for post-earthquake loss of electric service. We have developed and applied a methodology to analyze earthquake impacts on Pacific Gas and Electric Company's (PG&E's) high-voltage electric substation network in central and northern California. Our objectives are to (1) identify and prioritize ways to reduce the potential impact of future earthquakes on our electric system, (2) refine PG&E's earthquake preparedness and response plans to be more realistic, and (3) optimize seismic criteria for future equipment purchases for the electric system.

Subject Headings: Electrical equipment | Electrical systems | Electric power | Earthquakes | Power transmission substations | Equipment and machinery | Power transmission | California | United States

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