Overview
Bellwood Substation is an operational electrical substation in Virginia, United States, owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company. It operates at 115 kV, serving the regional grid.
Bellwood Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Virginia, United States. Owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy, the facility is a key node in the state's transmission network. The substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, placing it within the sub-transmission or distribution voltage range typical for regional power distribution. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Bellwood Substation is subject to reliability standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for interstate transmission. The facility's 115 kV voltage level indicates it likely serves as a distribution substation, stepping down power from higher voltage transmission lines for local distribution. Substations of this scale are critical for maintaining grid stability and ensuring reliable electricity supply to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the surrounding area. The substation's location in Virginia places it within the PJM Interconnection regional transmission organization, which coordinates the movement of wholesale electricity across 13 states and the District of Columbia. Bellwood Substation contributes to the resilience of the local grid by providing voltage regulation and switching capabilities. Its operational status ensures continued support for the region's energy needs, with the facility playing a role in the broader electrical infrastructure that powers communities and businesses in central Virginia.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region with a mix of urban and suburban development near Richmond, Virginia. Electrical infrastructure like Bellwood Substation is designed to minimize environmental impact through proper siting and equipment that reduces electromagnetic fields and noise. The facility's operation supports the integration of renewable energy sources into the grid, contributing to the region's energy transition goals.
Frequently asked questions
Bellwood Substation is located in Virginia, United States, near the city of Richmond. Its coordinates are approximately 37.4174 N, -77.4327 W.
Bellwood Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for distribution substations that step down power from higher voltage transmission lines for local distribution.
Bellwood Substation is owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy, one of the largest energy producers and distributors in the United States.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Bellwood Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets. It also operates within the PJM Interconnection regional transmission organization.
A 115 kV substation typically serves as a distribution substation, converting high-voltage transmission power to lower voltages for local distribution to homes, businesses, and industries. It also provides voltage regulation, switching, and protection functions to maintain grid stability.