Overview
Arlee Substation is an operational electrical substation in Montana, United States, operated by Mission Valley Power. It operates at 69 kV, serving the local grid.
Arlee Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Montana, United States. Operated by Mission Valley Power, it serves as a key node in the regional electrical infrastructure, stepping down transmission voltages for local distribution. The substation's 69 kV voltage level places it in the medium-voltage range, typical for rural distribution substations. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC oversight for interstate transmission. As a 69 kV facility, it likely connects to higher-voltage transmission lines and feeds local distribution networks, supporting residential and agricultural loads in the surrounding area. The equipment likely includes circuit breakers, transformers, and switchgear compliant with IEEE standards. Environmentally, the substation is situated in a rural area of western Montana, near the Flathead Indian Reservation. Its operation supports the local community's electrical needs, contributing to grid reliability in a region with variable weather conditions. The substation's age and maintenance practices are critical for minimizing environmental risks such as oil leaks from transformers.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of Montana, characterized by forested terrain and proximity to the Flathead River. Its operation involves standard electrical infrastructure risks, including potential transformer oil leaks and electromagnetic fields. The site's rural setting reduces exposure to urban pollution but requires careful management of vegetation to prevent wildfire risks. The substation's age and maintenance practices are critical for minimizing environmental impacts.
Frequently asked questions
Arlee Substation is located in Montana, United States, near the town of Arlee. Its coordinates are approximately 47.1531 N, -114.0686 W.
Arlee Substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV (69,000 volts), which is typical for a distribution substation in the United States.
Arlee Substation is operated by Mission Valley Power, a utility serving the Flathead Indian Reservation and surrounding areas in Montana.
As a US electrical substation, Arlee Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interstate transmission. It also follows IEEE standards for substation equipment.
A 69 kV substation typically steps down transmission voltages (e.g., 115 kV or higher) to distribution voltages (e.g., 12.47 kV) for local delivery to homes and businesses. It also provides switching and protection functions.