Overview
Ashford Substation is an operational electrical substation in Alabama, United States, owned and operated by Alabama Power. It operates at voltages of 46,000 V and 12,470 V, serving the local grid.
Ashford Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Alabama, United States. Owned and operated by Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company, this facility plays a key role in the regional electrical infrastructure. The substation is part of the broader transmission and distribution network serving the southeastern United States. The substation operates at dual voltage levels of 46,000 V (46 kV) and 12,470 V (12.47 kV), indicating it functions as a distribution substation stepping down transmission voltage for local distribution. As part of Alabama Power's grid, it is subject to regulatory oversight by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards for grid stability and security. Located in Houston County, Alabama, the substation supports electrical service to the surrounding community and industrial areas. Its operation is critical for maintaining reliable power supply in the region, and it is integrated into the larger Southeastern Electric Reliability Council (SERC) interconnection, which coordinates grid reliability across multiple states.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of southeastern Alabama, characterized by a mix of agricultural land and small communities. The local climate is humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters, which influences electrical demand patterns. The facility's voltage levels and location suggest it serves as a distribution hub, with potential environmental considerations including electromagnetic field management and storm resilience, given the region's susceptibility to hurricanes and severe thunderstorms.
Frequently asked questions
Ashford Substation is located in Alabama, United States, near the city of Ashford in Houston County. Its approximate coordinates are 31.1876 N, -85.2361 W.
Ashford Substation operates at two voltage levels: 46,000 volts (46 kV) and 12,470 volts (12.47 kV), typical for a distribution substation stepping down transmission voltage for local use.
Ashford Substation is owned and operated by Alabama Power, a major electric utility serving Alabama and a subsidiary of Southern Company.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interstate transmission. Alabama Power also adheres to state-level public utility commission rules.
A distribution substation like Ashford Substation steps down high transmission voltages to lower distribution voltages for delivery to homes and businesses, ensuring safe and reliable electricity supply.