Overview
Avery Ranch Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority. It operates at 138 kV, serving the local grid.
Avery Ranch Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), this facility plays a key role in the regional power distribution network. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level infrastructure in the United States. As part of the LCRA's transmission system, Avery Ranch Substation is subject to regulatory oversight by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. These standards ensure grid stability and security, particularly for facilities that interconnect with the broader Texas Interconnection managed by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). The substation's 138 kV voltage level places it in the medium-voltage range, supporting local load centers and distribution networks. The substation's location in the rapidly growing Austin metropolitan area underscores its importance for meeting increasing electricity demand. By stepping down transmission voltages for local distribution, it supports residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the region. The LCRA's ownership ensures alignment with regional water and power resource management, contributing to the reliability of the Texas grid.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a suburban area of central Texas, characterized by a mix of residential developments and open spaces. The region experiences hot summers and mild winters, with peak electricity demand driven by air conditioning loads. The facility's design and operation consider local environmental factors such as stormwater management and wildlife corridors, though specific mitigation measures are not detailed. The substation's role in the grid helps integrate renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which are increasingly prevalent in Texas.
Frequently asked questions
Avery Ranch Substation is located in Texas, United States, near the Avery Ranch area in the Austin metropolitan region. Its coordinates are approximately 30.49° N, 97.79° W.
Avery Ranch Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is a common sub-transmission voltage level in the United States, used to distribute power from higher-voltage transmission lines to local distribution networks.
Avery Ranch Substation is owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), a public utility that provides water and power services to central Texas.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Avery Ranch Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. It also operates within the ERCOT interconnection, which has additional regional reliability requirements.
Avery Ranch Substation helps distribute electricity to the growing Austin area, supporting residential, commercial, and industrial customers. It plays a role in maintaining grid stability and integrating renewable energy sources in Texas.