Overview
Belvoir Substation is an operational electrical substation in Virginia, United States, owned and operated by Virginia Power. It operates at a voltage of 230 kV, indicating a high-voltage transmission-level facility.
Belvoir Substation is a high-voltage electrical substation located in Virginia, United States. Owned and operated by Virginia Power, the facility is operational and serves as a critical node in the regional transmission grid. With a voltage level of 230 kV, it falls within the typical range for transmission substations that interconnect bulk power systems. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for the U.S. bulk power system. As a 230 kV facility, it is subject to NERC's Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards and FERC's oversight of transmission rates and grid reliability. The substation likely employs modern automation and protection systems, such as those based on IEC 61850, to ensure safe and efficient operation. Belvoir Substation plays a key role in maintaining grid stability and reliability in the Virginia region. Its location near military installations (e.g., Fort Belvoir) underscores its importance for critical infrastructure resilience. The facility contributes to the delivery of electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial customers, supporting the local economy and community services.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region with a mix of urban and suburban development, near the Potomac River. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential oil spill risks from transformers, though modern containment measures mitigate these. The surrounding area supports diverse ecosystems, and the substation's design likely incorporates measures to minimize visual and noise impacts on nearby communities.
Frequently asked questions
Belvoir Substation is located in Virginia, United States, near the coordinates 38.741430, -77.134529, in proximity to Fort Belvoir.
Belvoir Substation operates at 230 kV (230,000 volts), which is a standard transmission voltage for bulk power transfer in the U.S. grid.
Belvoir Substation is owned and operated by Virginia Power, a major electric utility serving the state of Virginia.
As a transmission substation in the U.S., Belvoir Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, including requirements for grid stability, cybersecurity, and physical security.
A 230 kV substation like Belvoir serves as a key node in the transmission grid, stepping down voltage for distribution or interconnecting with other high-voltage lines to ensure reliable electricity delivery.