What is the Metcalf Energy Center?

The Metcalf Energy Center is a 600 megawatt power generation facility that was developed by San Jose-based Calpine Corporation. It utilizes natural gas for fuel and is one of the cleanest, most efficient facilities of its kind in the world.

What is the address and location of the MEC project?

The Metcalf Energy Center is located in South San Jose on the west side of Monterey Road, across from the existing PG&E substation and near the existing natural gas lines that run along Highway 101. The specific site is a 14-acre parcel of flat land at the base of Tulare Hill. The address is 1 Blanchard, P.O. Box 13190, San Jose, CA 95013.

What makes this a good site for an energy center?

Calpine chose the Monterey Road site for a variety of reasons.

The site is located across Monterey Road from PG&E's Metcalf substation-the major electric transmission hub for Silicon Valley; it is close to major natural gas transmission lines; it is near the city water line for recycled water; and it is adjacent to a main rail line for delivery of equipment, reducing use of roadways.

As important, the site is isolated from residential areas; it is shielded from view from the North and West by Tulare Hill; and it does not require construction of additional transmission lines.

Does Calpine plan to develop Tulare Hill?

No. Calpine built the facility on the flatlands to the southeast of the hill. No construction took place on the 116-acre hillside. This land has been donated to the Silicon Valley Land Conservancy to be cared for in perpetuity.

Who is the sponsor of this project?

Calpine Corporation

Calpine is a major U.S. power company, capable of delivering over 24,000 megawatts of clean, cost-effective, reliable and fuel-efficient electricity to customers and communities in 16 states in the U.S. and Canada. The company owns, leases and operates low-carbon, natural gas-fired and renewable geothermal power plants.