Powering the future: First de-energized substation training facility sets new standards
At a glance
RIM Architects, now part of GHD, designed an innovative training academy that achieved Zero Net Electric Energy and LEED certifications while transforming utility worker safety training through a first-of-its-kind de-energized substation facility, setting new standards for the industry.
The challenge
Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) needed to revolutionize their approach to safety training for substation operations and maintenance workers. The existing facilities were compartmentalized, creating inefficient workspaces that limited growth and collaboration. They required a centralized location that could seamlessly integrate classroom learning with hands-on experience while accommodating training demands for approximately 775 crew members annually.
The space needed to provide realistic field conditions for training utility workers while maintaining absolute safety. Additionally, the facility had to align with PG&E's commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency, requiring innovative solutions to achieve ambitious environmental goals.
Our response
We designed a comprehensive campus redevelopment featuring a new 14,000-square-foot Substation Training Building with an adjacent training yard - the first de-energized facility of its kind in the United States. The design integrates classroom, laboratory and outdoor facilities to create a seamless learning environment with realistic simulated field conditions, including full-size training poles and mini-residential buildings. The project scope also encompassed a new 9,000-square-foot Transformer Training Building and a major renovation of the existing 24,000-square-foot Main Administration and Conference building.
The team transformed the existing main building by removing spatial barriers and creating collaborative zones that support different lines of business. To achieve Zero Net Electric Energy status, we incorporated sustainable design elements including site parking canopies with solar arrays, strategic building orientation to maximize natural light, highly-efficient building systems, and integrated daylight sensors.
The impact
The facility has redefined utility safety training, providing approximately 4,100 student training days annually in a risk-free environment. The project earned LEED Gold certification for the Substation Building and LEED Silver for the main building renovation. The innovative design was recognized as Engineering News-Record's Green Project of the Year and received the Design Build Institute of America West Pacific Region Project of the Year award. The facility demonstrates how thoughtful design can enhance safety culture while achieving ambitious sustainability goals.