Overview
Buxton Substation is an operational electrical substation in Maine, United States, owned and operated by Central Maine Power Company. It operates at 345 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Buxton Substation is a high-voltage electrical substation located in Maine, United States. Owned and operated by Central Maine Power Company, the facility is part of the regional transmission network that delivers electricity across the state. With a voltage level of 345 kV, it is classified as a large-scale substation critical for bulk power transmission. 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. power grid. As a 345 kV facility, Buxton Substation is equipped with modern switchgear and protection systems compliant with industry standards such as ISO/IEC 61850 for substation automation. Its location in Maine places it within the ISO New England (ISO-NE) market, which coordinates regional grid operations. Buxton Substation plays a vital role in maintaining grid stability and reliability for the surrounding communities and industrial users. By stepping down transmission-level voltage for distribution or interconnecting with other high-voltage lines, it supports the efficient flow of electricity across the region. The substation's operational status ensures continued service to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in central and southern Maine.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Maine, characterized by mixed forest and agricultural land. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential impacts on local wildlife, though modern substations are designed to minimize ecological disruption. The facility's high voltage (345 kV) requires significant clearance and right-of-way maintenance, which can affect vegetation and habitat connectivity. However, such infrastructure is essential for integrating renewable energy sources like wind and hydro from northern Maine into the regional grid.
Frequently asked questions
Buxton Substation is located in Maine, United States, at coordinates 43.663274, -70.553205. It is owned and operated by Central Maine Power Company.
Buxton Substation operates at 345 kV, which is a high transmission voltage level used for bulk power transfer across long distances.
Buxton Substation is owned and operated by Central Maine Power Company, a major electric utility serving central and southern Maine.
As part of the U.S. grid, Buxton Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. It also operates within the ISO New England market framework.
A 345 kV substation like Buxton serves as a critical node in the transmission grid, stepping down voltage for distribution or interconnecting high-voltage lines to ensure reliable electricity delivery.