California public power utility Silicon Valley Power recently detailed how its employees worked behind the scenes to ensure reliable power and protect critical infrastructure throughout the 2026 Super Bowl, which was held at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif.
Preparation began over a year in advance, with teams across Communications, Operations, Transmission and Distribution, Substations, and Administration coordinating to plan for a wide range of scenarios, SVP noted. SVP performed detailed inspections and testing to ensure all infrastructure was in tip-top condition. SVP developed multi-tiered Operations plans complete with contingency and recovery plans in the event of a fault or emergency.
These plans were tested through drills and utilized in the NFL and Levis Stadium’s plans.
Deeper preparation with Federal and local Law Enforcement agencies regarding Physical Security and Cyber Security began almost 2 years prior resulting in detailed plans that will be used not only in the Super Bowl but other high-risk events. SVP also coordinated with neighboring utility companies to ensure adequate coverage for elements not covered by SVP or other City Departments.
Daily coordination meetings began weeks leading up to the Super Bowl with Santa Clara Emergency Operations personnel, NFL staff and contractors, Levis Stadium staff, Santa Clara Police Department, and Department of Homeland Security. SVP also coordinated with third party contractors to provide on-site Physical Security monitoring and Cyber Security monitoring leading up to and during the event.
As event requirements evolved, sometimes changing on short notice, employees adapted quickly, developed new plans, strengthened communication, and ensured teams were ready for anything game day might bring.
On game day, SVP staff were stationed across multiple locations. Some worked from the City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) and SVP’s Department Operations Center (DOC), while others were deployed to secured locations and hardened perimeters to monitor critical infrastructure.
Additional team members supported field crews by delivering food and supplies, while others helped prepare meals to keep teams fueled throughout the day.
SVP highlighted the enhanced security monitoring system, which provided real-time visibility of key assets. Security cameras captured plenty of activity, from curious wildlife and visitors seeking shade to a few situations that required a closer look, but each was quickly assessed and resolved by our teams.
While the event itself was relatively quiet from an operational standpoint, SVP staff remained vigilant and ready throughout the day. Their preparation and coordination ensured our systems remained secure and reliable, the utility noted.
The experience highlighted the professionalism, flexibility, and teamwork of SVP employees who stepped up to support a major global event in our community.
SVP said the lessons learned will help strengthen planning as Santa Clara prepares to host the upcoming FIFA World Cup this summer.
With each major event, SVP continues to refine its approach, ensuring it remains ready to keep the power on and its community supported, no matter the stage, it noted.
“Supporting the Super Bowl required precision, adaptability, and strong coordination across our entire organization.” Said Nico Procos, Electric Utility Director of Silicon Valley Power. “Our employees rose to the occasion, ensuring uninterrupted service while protecting critical infrastructure. The experience has strengthened our approach and positions us well for upcoming events like the FIFA World Cup.”
