Overview
Big 3 Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by Oncor. It operates at a voltage of 138 kV, serving the regional grid.
Big 3 Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by Oncor, a major transmission and distribution utility in the state, the facility plays a role in the regional electrical infrastructure. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level assets in the US grid. Oncor operates under the regulatory oversight of the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability. The 138 kV voltage level places this substation in a medium-voltage category, often used to distribute power from higher-voltage transmission lines to local distribution networks. The facility's location in Texas, a state with a unique independent grid (ERCOT), means it operates under specific reliability and market rules distinct from other US regions. The substation's operational status and connection to Oncor's network indicate its role in maintaining reliable electricity supply to the surrounding area. As part of the broader Texas grid, it contributes to the resilience and capacity needed to support local communities and industries. The facility's age and specific technical details are not publicly available, but its continued operation underscores its importance to regional power delivery.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a semi-arid region of Texas, characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures. Electrical infrastructure in such areas must be designed to withstand heat and dust, which can affect equipment performance. The facility's voltage level and location in a less densely populated area suggest it serves rural or industrial loads, where grid stability is critical for local economic activities.
Frequently asked questions
Big 3 Substation is located in Texas, United States, at coordinates 31.819348, -102.345157. It is owned and operated by Oncor.
Big 3 Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is a common sub-transmission voltage level in the United States.
Big 3 Substation is owned and operated by Oncor, a major electric transmission and distribution utility serving Texas.
As part of the Texas grid (ERCOT), Big 3 Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and PUCT regulations. ERCOT's independent grid requires adherence to specific operational and market rules.
A 138 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission lines (e.g., 345 kV) to distribution levels, serving industrial or large commercial customers and feeding local distribution networks.