The project features a new 500kV transmission substation in the East County community of Jacumba and an upgraded substation in Boulevard that was constructed over 60 years ago.
A 14-mile transmission line was built to link both the substations.
The project was designed to improve electric reliability in the region and to support the delivery of renewable wind and solar energy to SDG&E customers.
It interconnects with the existing 500kV Southwest Powerlink transmission line.
SDG&E vice president of electric transmission and system engineering David Geier said: "The ECO Substation project is a vital reliability addition to our local transmission system and will improve our service to our customers in the eastern part of our county.
"This project will also help in meeting California’s aggressive renewable energy goals by facilitating the development of renewable energy in the region."
SDG&E delivers energy services to 3.4 million consumers via 1.4 million electric meters and 861,000 natural gas meters in San Diego and southern Orange counties. The utility’s area spans 4,100 square miles.
Image: The East County substation project was designed to improve electric reliability in the region. Photo: Courtesy of Rawich/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
