Overview
Alkali Creek Substation is an operational electrical substation in Montana, United States, owned and operated by NorthWestern Energy. It operates at voltage levels of 230 kV and 161 kV, serving the regional grid.
Alkali Creek Substation is an electrical substation located in Montana, United States, owned and operated by NorthWestern Energy. The facility is operational and plays a key role in the regional power transmission network, handling voltages of 230 kV and 161 kV, which are typical for high-voltage transmission infrastructure in the country. As a substation operating under the jurisdiction of the United States, it is subject to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulation for transmission-level assets. The facility's voltage levels indicate its importance in the bulk power system, facilitating the step-down or step-up of electricity for distribution or further transmission. NorthWestern Energy is a major utility in the region, serving customers across Montana, South Dakota, and Nebraska. The substation's location in Montana places it within a region characterized by diverse geography, including plains and mountainous areas. Its role in the grid is critical for maintaining stability and reliability, particularly given the area's varying energy demands from residential, agricultural, and industrial sectors. The facility contributes to the overall resilience of the electrical infrastructure in the northwestern United States.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a semi-arid region of Montana, where seasonal temperature extremes and occasional severe weather events can impact grid operations. The facility's voltage levels and location in a rural area influence its environmental footprint, with considerations for electromagnetic fields and land use. As part of the regional transmission network, it supports the integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind and hydroelectric power, which are prevalent in the area.
Frequently asked questions
Alkali Creek Substation is located in Montana, United States, at coordinates 45.857619, -108.591036. It is owned and operated by NorthWestern Energy.
Alkali Creek Substation operates at voltage levels of 230 kV and 161 kV, which are typical for high-voltage transmission substations in the United States.
Alkali Creek Substation is operated by NorthWestern Energy, a utility company serving customers in Montana, South Dakota, and Nebraska.
As a transmission-level substation in the United States, Alkali Creek Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations to ensure grid stability and security.
Alkali Creek Substation plays a critical role in the regional transmission network, stepping voltage between 230 kV and 161 kV to facilitate efficient power transfer and distribution across Montana.