North Carolina-based Smart Wires is helping Californian utility Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) enhance grid reliability and meet energy commitments for data centres connecting in San Jose.

By deploying its advanced power flow control (APFC) technology, Smart Wires will help PG&E mitigate thermal overloads, redirect power flow and increase available capacity at its Los Esteros electric substation.

The project should boost capacity by more than 100MW at the substation, which is next to data centres under development in the Alviso community of San Jose. The installation of Smart Wires’ SmartValve APFC devices (www.smartwires.com/smartvalve) is expected for completion in late 2025 and will reinforce critical infrastructure to keep these data centres operating.

“As the demand for data centres skyrockets, ensuring a reliable and efficient grid is more important than ever,” said Joanna Lohkamp, CEO of Smart Wires (www.smartwires.com). “Our work with PG&E demonstrates the significant impact of our SmartValve technology, dynamically redirecting power from overloaded to underutilised lines. This approach addresses current capacity constraints and optimises existing infrastructure for the massive energy needs of data centres while also offering a scalable option for future grid enhancements.”

The California Independent System Operator (Caiso) projects a load increase of up to 500MW in the San Jose area due to data centre growth. While a new transmission line is planned for 2032, a near-term option was needed to ensure reliable power delivery starting in 2025. After evaluating multiple offerings – including reconductoring and energy storage, both of which proved too costly and slow – Caiso identified APFC as the most effective, reliable and timely approach. SmartValve devices deliver fast, high-impact upgrades that mitigate thermal overloads by up to 34%, enabling an additional 100MW of firm power delivery over the existing lines.

“Working with Smart Wires allows PG&E to efficiently address projected capacity needs while maintaining high reliability for our customers,” said Chad Dupuis, principal electrical engineer at PG&E. “This collaboration highlights our commitment to deploying innovative technologies that enhance our grid’s flexibility, security and resilience.”

SmartValve provides a fast and cost-effective path to meet increasing electricity demand and allows utilities to manage capacity and load dynamically. This technology can be rapidly deployed, adjusted or relocated to accommodate shifting energy needs and the integration of new power generation sources. Additionally, SmartValve’s modular and relocatable design allows for future expansion or reconfiguration to accommodate evolving grid needs. Once the new transmission line comes online in 2032, SmartValve will continue to enhance its benefits by dynamically balancing power flows across the network.

PG&E (pge.com) is a combined natural gas and electric utility serving more than sixteen million people across northern and central California.