Is the technology used in the Metcalf Energy Center experimental?

No. The technology incorporated in the Metcalf Energy Center is combined-cycle combustion technology, the same tested, proven technology that is currently being utilized in dozens of power projects across the country and around the world.

What is combined-cycle technology?

Combined-cycle technology is the most efficient, commercially-available technology available for converting natural gas into electricity. A combustion turbine burns natural gas to produce electricity. The exhaust heat is then recycled to produce additional power in a steam turbine.

Today's modern energy facilities, which utilize combined-cycle technology, are much smaller in size and height than earlier technologies as well as being more efficient in its use of natural resources and cleaner in terms of air quality.

Is this facility safe?

Yes. Calpine incorporates state-of-the-art safety features into the design of all of their power generation facilities, and their highly-skilled employees undergo extensive safety training. During the operation of the facility, all systems will be monitored 24 hours a day. Both the gas and electrical systems will be built to industry standards, and all potentially hazardous materials will be limited in size and securely contained above ground.

What fuel does the facility use?

The Metcalf Energy Center uses natural gas for fuel. This is the same natural gas that is commonly used in homes and businesses around the Bay Area for heating and cooking.

How does the facility obtain its natural gas?

Calpine built a short natural gas line to the existing major PG&E gas transmission line that runs along Highway 101. This line is underground and was designed to meet all federal and state safety standards for new gas lines.

Is it unusual for electric generation facilities of this kind to be located in the vicinity of populations centers?

No. Electric generation facilities are often located in areas of high population, allowing the electric generation to be efficiently located near the load it serves. In the Bay Area, large plants are located in San Francisco and the East Bay and smaller plants are located at the Agnews State Hospital, San Francisco International Airport and on the campuses of Stanford University, UC Berkeley and San Jose State University. One example of this is located in the East Bay: The Crockett Cogeneration facility, a 240 megawatt power plant, safely operates only a few blocks away from businesses and residences.

How does the new plant differ from Calpine's Gilroy plant?

The Gilroy plant is more than a decade old and uses 1980's technology. The Metcalf Energy Center will utilize modern environmental equipment-including noise, plume and pollution abatement technologies. The Gilroy plant was designed for an industrial setting; the Metcalf Energy Center will be designed to be consistent with a more urban setting.