Overview
Burke Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, operating at 230 kV. It plays a key role in regional grid stability and power distribution.
Burke Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, with coordinates 38.822341, -77.307418. Operating at a voltage of 230 kV, it is classified as a high-voltage substation, critical for transmitting electricity over long distances and ensuring grid reliability. 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 transmission-level assets. In the United States, substations like Burke are essential nodes in the bulk power system, often equipped with automation per ISO/IEC 61850 standards to enhance monitoring and control. As part of the national grid, Burke Substation contributes to the stability and resilience of the electrical infrastructure in its region. Its high-voltage capacity supports industrial, commercial, and residential demand, while its operational status ensures continuous power flow. The facility's location in a populated area underscores its importance in maintaining reliable electricity supply.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region with a temperate climate, where seasonal weather variations can impact grid operations. High-voltage equipment requires robust insulation and maintenance to withstand temperature extremes and storm events. The surrounding area includes mixed urban and suburban development, necessitating careful land use planning to minimize electromagnetic field exposure and visual impact.
Frequently asked questions
Burke Substation is located in the United States at coordinates 38.822341, -77.307418, likely in the state of Virginia near the town of Burke.
Burke Substation operates at 230 kV (230,000 volts), which is a high-voltage level used for long-distance transmission in the US power grid.
Substations like Burke step up or step down voltage for efficient transmission and distribution, and they provide switching, protection, and monitoring functions to ensure grid reliability.
US substations must comply with NERC reliability standards for transmission assets, FERC regulations for interstate electricity, and often adopt ISO/IEC 61850 for substation automation.
As a 230 kV substation, Burke helps balance load and generation, facilitates power flow between regions, and supports voltage regulation, which are critical for preventing blackouts.