The California Independent Systems Operator is a public benefit corporation that manages California’s statewide electrical grid and distribution system. With staff presently housed in a variety of leased offices, Cal ISO engaged Dreyfuss & Blackford to design a consolidated headquarters facility on a foothill site previously used for mining and aggregate processing.

The design solution is a campus consisting of three connected wings, each with specific functions. A public wing houses board chambers, meeting rooms and interpretive exhibits on California’s electrical systems. The office wing houses administrative staff, while the Mission Critical wing provides a secure, redundant command center for 24-hour uninterrupted operations.

The project will meet ambitious sustainability goals through high efficiency, thermal energy storage, photovoltaic power generation and many other innovative features. Much of the site will be preserved in its natural state, and the project will seek a LEED NC Platinum rating. Cal ISO is at the forefront of California’s energy future and this headquarters will fully reflect that leadership.