Overview
3-Mile Draw Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, operating at 138 kV. It plays a role in regional grid stability and power distribution.
3-Mile Draw Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, with coordinates 31.814269, -103.983008. The facility operates at a voltage level of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations, serving to step down power from higher transmission voltages for local distribution. As a substation in the United States, this facility operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight for transmission-level assets. The 138 kV voltage class is commonly used for regional power transfer and industrial supply, and substations of this scale are integral to maintaining grid reliability and load balancing. The environmental context of the substation is influenced by its location in a rural or semi-arid region of the southwestern United States, where electrical infrastructure supports mining, agriculture, and community needs. The facility's operational status ensures continued service to the local grid, contributing to energy security and economic activity in the area.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a region characterized by arid to semi-arid climate, with low population density and potential for high solar insolation. Electrical infrastructure in such areas often supports water pumping, irrigation, and mineral extraction. The 138 kV voltage level indicates a role in regional power distribution, with environmental considerations including land use for transmission corridors and potential impacts on local wildlife.
Frequently asked questions
3-Mile Draw Substation is located in the United States at coordinates 31.814269, -103.983008, in a rural area of the southwestern region.
3-Mile Draw Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is a common sub-transmission voltage level used for regional power distribution.
The operator of 3-Mile Draw Substation is not publicly listed, but substations in the US are typically operated by utilities or independent system operators (ISOs) under NERC reliability standards.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets. Facilities like 3-Mile Draw Substation are subject to these requirements to ensure safe and reliable operation.
A 138 kV substation typically steps down high-voltage transmission power (e.g., 230 kV or higher) to lower voltages for distribution to industrial, commercial, and residential customers. It also provides switching and protection functions to maintain grid reliability.