Overview
Belle Plaine Substation is an operational electrical substation in Kansas, United States, operated by Sumner-Cowley Electric Cooperative. It operates at 138 kV, serving the local grid.
Belle Plaine Substation is an electrical substation located in Belle Plaine, Kansas, United States. It is operated by Sumner-Cowley Electric Cooperative and is currently operational. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level infrastructure in rural cooperative networks. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, where NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations govern the bulk power system. As a cooperative-owned facility, it is subject to state-level utility regulations and reliability requirements. The 138 kV voltage level indicates it serves as a key node for distributing power from higher-voltage transmission lines to local distribution networks. This substation plays a critical role in providing reliable electricity to the rural communities in Sumner County and surrounding areas. Its operation supports agricultural and residential loads, contributing to the economic stability of the region. The facility is part of a broader cooperative grid that emphasizes community service and resilience.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of Kansas, characterized by agricultural land and open plains. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential impacts on local wildlife, though standard mitigation measures are typically in place. The 138 kV voltage level is moderate, and the facility's rural location reduces exposure to dense urban populations.
Frequently asked questions
Belle Plaine Substation is located in Belle Plaine, Kansas, United States, at coordinates 37.406839, -97.206600.
Belle Plaine Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations in rural cooperative networks.
Belle Plaine Substation is operated by Sumner-Cowley Electric Cooperative, a member-owned utility serving rural areas in Kansas.
Substations in the United States are subject to NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets. State utility commissions also oversee distribution-level facilities.
A 138 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission lines (e.g., 230 kV or 345 kV) to distribution levels (e.g., 34.5 kV or 12.47 kV), serving as a critical node for local power distribution.