Overview
Bill Yoney Substation is an operational electrical substation in Needles, California, operated by the Needles Public Utilities Authority. It operates at 69 kV, serving the local grid.
Bill Yoney Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Needles, California, United States. It is owned and operated by the Needles Public Utilities Authority, a municipal utility serving the local community. The substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, placing it in the sub-transmission or distribution voltage range typical for regional power distribution. The substation's 69 kV voltage level is common for distribution substations that step down power from higher transmission voltages for local delivery. In the United States, such facilities are subject to reliability standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and may fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) if interconnected with the bulk power system. The Needles Public Utilities Authority likely adheres to these standards to ensure grid stability and safety. Located in the Mojave Desert region of California, the substation supports the electrical infrastructure of Needles, a small city along the Colorado River. Its role is critical for providing reliable power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the area, especially given the region's extreme summer temperatures that drive high demand for air conditioning. The facility contributes to the resilience of the local grid.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in the Mojave Desert, a hot and arid environment where high summer temperatures can strain electrical infrastructure. The 69 kV voltage level indicates a distribution role, and the facility's urban location in Needles means it serves a concentrated load. Older equipment may pose reliability risks in extreme heat. The substation's operation is essential for maintaining grid stability in a region prone to heatwaves and wildfire risks.
Frequently asked questions
Bill Yoney Substation is located in Needles, California, United States, near the Colorado River in the Mojave Desert.
Bill Yoney Substation operates at 69 kV, which is typical for distribution substations that deliver power to local communities.
The substation is owned and operated by the Needles Public Utilities Authority, a municipal utility serving the city of Needles.
In the United States, substations are subject to NERC reliability standards and may be regulated by FERC if part of the bulk power system. Local utilities also follow state and local codes.
High temperatures and dust in the Mojave Desert can increase cooling demands and accelerate equipment wear. Substations in such areas require robust maintenance to ensure reliability during peak summer loads.