23 ATTACHMENT 2 - Laserfiche WebLink

1)R.4I ~ T DRAFT .DRAFT substations to step down the power to deliverable voltages, and, of the adequacy of the local distribution network to deliver adequate power to end users. In 2001 PG&E reported that the Tri-Valley electrical transmission and distribution system was in need of an upgrade to increase capacity. To address this issue, in 2002 PG&E constructed a transmission capacity increase project in the Tri-Valley. In Pleasanton, the project included the installation of a new underground 230 kV line under/near Vineyard Avenue and the upgrading of the existing Vineyard Substation to accommodate the increased capacity. Transmission and Distribution of Natural Gas A natural gas power system consists of underground natural gas reservoirs, drilling equipment, long distance transmission pipelines, and local distribution pipelines. Natural gas is a fossil fuel made of decomposed plant and animal material and is usually found near a petroleum reservoir. Natural gas is pumped from the underground reservoir into large transmission pipelines which transport the gas to local distribution pipelines. Some local distribution systems lead to underground storage. These natural gas storage areas are utilized during seasonal peaks. In Pleasanton there are three natural gas transmission pipelines. These pipelines are located on Foothill Road, Santa Rita Road, and Stanley Boulevard. There are no natural gas storage areas in Pleasanton. The capacity of a natural gas distribution system is dependent upon local characteristics within the system, some of which include customer gas loads, pipe diameters, and flow behavior. Requests for usage increases are sent to PG&E, and PG&E adjusts the system to accommodate its customers. LOCAL POWER SOURCES Solar energy is power produced by heat or light collected from the sun. Common forms of solar energy are solar water heating systems which use the sun to heat water and photovoltaic facilities which convert sunlight into energy. Pleasanton's sunny climate is suitable for the implementation of solar energy technologies. A couple of solar water heating systems are installed each year in Pleasanton, typically to heat pools. In 2000 and 2001 the City's first photovoltaic systems were approved. Since this time, approximately one or two photovoltaic facilities have been installed each year at various commercial and residential locations in the City. Excess power from photovoltaic systems can be put into the grid, thus increasing regional and state power supplies. The promotion and installation of solar water heating and photovoltaic facilities is consistent with the overarching goal of the Energy Element which is to guide Pleasanton toward a sustainable energy future. Page 3 April 19, 2005