100th & 54th Substation - Des Moines, Iowa Electrical Substation

100th & 54th Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Des Moines, Iowa, United States. Owned and operated by MidAmerican Energy, the facility plays a key role in the regional power distribution network. With a voltage level of 161 kV, it is classified as a high-voltage substation, typical for urban and suburban grid infrastructure. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards for the bulk power system. MidAmerican Energy, a major utility in the Midwest, ensures compliance with these standards to maintain grid stability. The 161 kV voltage level is common for subtransmission and distribution, linking larger transmission lines to local distribution networks. As part of the Des Moines metropolitan area, this substation supports the electrical needs of residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Its operational status and location within a growing urban area underscore its importance for reliable electricity supply. The facility contributes to the resilience of the local grid, particularly during peak demand periods.

The substation is situated in an urban area of Des Moines, Iowa, where land use is predominantly residential and commercial. The local environment includes typical urban features such as roads, buildings, and green spaces. Electrical infrastructure like this substation is designed to minimize visual and noise impact through appropriate siting and enclosure. The surrounding area is not associated with sensitive ecological habitats, and the substation's operation adheres to standard environmental regulations for electromagnetic fields and noise.