Overview
Alford Substation is an operational electrical substation in Florida, United States, owned and operated by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative. It operates at a voltage of 115 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Alford Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Florida, United States. Owned and operated by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, the facility plays a critical role in the regional transmission network, stepping down high-voltage electricity for distribution to local communities and industrial customers. The substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level infrastructure in the United States. As part of the North American power grid, it adheres to reliability standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and is subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight for transmission-level assets. The facility likely employs modern switchgear and protection systems to ensure grid stability and safety. Located in the Florida Panhandle, the substation supports the region's energy needs, including residential, commercial, and agricultural loads. Its operation is essential for maintaining grid reliability in an area prone to extreme weather events such as hurricanes, which can impact electrical infrastructure. The facility's role in the PowerSouth Energy Cooperative network underscores its importance in delivering affordable and reliable electricity to member cooperatives and their customers.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region with a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The area is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, which pose risks to overhead transmission lines and substation equipment. The facility's design likely includes measures to withstand high winds and flooding, such as elevated equipment and robust structural standards. The surrounding landscape includes a mix of agricultural land and forests, with potential impacts on local wildlife from electromagnetic fields and habitat fragmentation, though these are typically managed through standard mitigation practices.
Frequently asked questions
Alford Substation is located in Florida, United States, at coordinates 30.698217, -85.343964. It is part of the PowerSouth Energy Cooperative transmission network.
Alford Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level substations in the United States.
Alford Substation is owned and operated by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, a generation and transmission cooperative serving Alabama and Florida.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Alford Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission infrastructure, ensuring grid stability and security.
A 115 kV substation steps down high-voltage electricity from transmission lines to lower voltages for distribution to homes, businesses, and industries. It also provides switching and protection functions to maintain grid reliability.