Overview
Brownwood Switching Station is a 138 kV electrical substation operated by Oncor in Brownwood, Texas, United States. It plays a key role in regional grid stability and power distribution.
Brownwood Switching Station is an electrical substation located in Brownwood, Texas, United States. Operated by Oncor, a major transmission and distribution utility in Texas, this facility operates at a voltage of 138 kV, classifying it as a high-voltage substation critical for regional power transmission and distribution. 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 bulk power system. As part of the Texas Interconnection, it is also subject to oversight by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which manages the state's independent grid. The 138 kV voltage level is typical for subtransmission and distribution substations, serving to step down power from higher transmission voltages for local distribution. As an operational substation, Brownwood Switching Station supports the electrical infrastructure of the Brownwood area and surrounding communities. Its role in the grid ensures reliable power supply to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The facility's location in central Texas places it within a region that experiences high electricity demand, particularly during summer peak periods, making its operational reliability essential for grid stability.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a semi-arid region of central Texas, characterized by hot summers and variable precipitation. Electrical infrastructure in such areas must be designed to withstand extreme heat and occasional drought conditions, which can affect equipment performance and vegetation management around rights-of-way. The facility's urban setting near Brownwood means it supports local energy needs while adhering to environmental regulations regarding electromagnetic fields and noise.
Frequently asked questions
Brownwood Switching Station is located in Brownwood, Texas, United States, at coordinates 31.660838, -98.920444.
Brownwood Switching Station is operated by Oncor, a major electric transmission and distribution utility serving Texas.
Brownwood Switching Station operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for subtransmission and distribution substations.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. In Texas, they also fall under ERCOT's grid management.
A switching station is a type of substation that allows for the connection and disconnection of transmission lines, helping to route power and isolate faults for grid reliability.