Overview
Beirne Substation is an operational electrical substation in Arkansas, United States, owned and operated by Entergy Arkansas. It handles voltages of 115 kV and 13.86 kV, serving the local grid.
Beirne Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Arkansas, United States. Owned and operated by Entergy Arkansas, it is a key node in the regional transmission and distribution network. The substation handles primary voltage of 115 kV and secondary voltage of 13.86 kV, placing it in the medium-to-high voltage range typical for distribution substations serving industrial and residential areas. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Beirne Substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. These standards ensure grid stability and require regular maintenance and testing of switchgear and transformers. The substation likely employs modern automation systems compatible with IEC 61850 for efficient monitoring and control. The substation plays a critical role in maintaining reliable electricity supply to the surrounding region. Its location in rural Arkansas supports local communities and industries, contributing to economic stability. The operational status indicates active participation in the grid, with potential for future upgrades to enhance capacity and resilience against extreme weather events common in the area.
Environmental context
Located in rural Arkansas, Beirne Substation operates in a region with a humid subtropical climate, prone to thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes. The substation's design must account for these weather risks, including flood mitigation and robust grounding systems. Its voltage level and rural setting suggest lower environmental impact compared to urban facilities, but proper oil containment and wildlife protection measures are essential to prevent contamination and outages.
Frequently asked questions
Beirne Substation is located in Arkansas, United States, at coordinates 33.908513, -93.218357.
Beirne Substation operates at 115 kV and 13.86 kV, typical for a distribution substation stepping down transmission voltage for local use.
Beirne Substation is owned and operated by Entergy Arkansas, a major utility serving the state.
As part of the U.S. grid, Beirne Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and safety.
Substations like Beirne transform voltage levels and route electricity, playing a critical role in delivering reliable power from transmission lines to distribution networks serving homes and businesses.