Overview
Altavista Substation is an operational electrical substation in Virginia, United States, owned by Virginia Electric and Power Company. It operates at 138 kV, serving the local grid.
Altavista Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Virginia, United States. Owned by Virginia Electric and Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy, this facility plays a key role in the regional transmission network. The substation operates at 138 kV, a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution, indicating it serves as an intermediary between high-voltage transmission lines and local distribution systems. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Altavista Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). These bodies enforce reliability standards and ensure grid stability. The substation likely employs modern automation and protection systems, such as those based on the IEC 61850 standard, to enhance operational efficiency and safety. The substation's location in Virginia places it within the PJM Interconnection, one of the largest regional transmission organizations in the U.S. This interconnection manages electricity flow across multiple states, ensuring reliable power supply. Altavista Substation contributes to grid stability by stepping down voltage for local distribution, supporting residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Virginia, surrounded by mixed forest and agricultural land. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential oil spill risks from transformers, though modern containment measures mitigate these. The site's proximity to natural habitats requires adherence to environmental regulations to minimize impact on local wildlife.
Frequently asked questions
Altavista Substation is located in Virginia, United States, near the town of Altavista. Its coordinates are approximately 37.130070 N, -79.278537 W.
Altavista Substation operates at 138 kV, a standard voltage for sub-transmission and distribution in the United States.
Altavista Substation is owned by Virginia Electric and Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy, a major utility in the region.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. These ensure grid stability and safety, covering equipment maintenance, cybersecurity, and operational protocols.
Altavista Substation steps down voltage from transmission lines to distribution levels, supplying electricity to local homes and businesses. It is part of the PJM Interconnection, which coordinates power flow across multiple states.