Overview
Cameron Wind Substation is an operational substation in Cameron County, Texas, owned by IKEA. It operates at 138 kV and 34.5 kV, supporting wind energy integration into the US grid.
Cameron Wind Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Cameron County, Texas, United States. Owned by IKEA, the facility plays a role in connecting wind energy resources to the regional transmission network. The substation operates at voltage levels of 138 kV and 34.5 kV, typical for medium-to-high voltage distribution and transmission applications. The substation's technical specifications include dual voltage levels, with 138 kV serving as a transmission-level voltage and 34.5 kV for sub-transmission or distribution. As part of the US electrical infrastructure, it operates under North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations for transmission assets. The facility likely employs modern switchgear and protection systems compliant with IEEE standards. Located in the Rio Grande Valley, the substation supports the integration of renewable energy from wind farms into the ERCOT grid. Its operation contributes to grid stability in a region experiencing growing energy demand. The substation's role in facilitating clean energy aligns with broader US energy transition goals.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a coastal plain environment near the Gulf of Mexico, characterized by flat terrain and agricultural land use. The area supports wind energy development due to consistent wind patterns. The facility's operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential impacts on local wildlife, though modern substations are designed with mitigation measures. The site's proximity to sensitive ecosystems requires adherence to environmental regulations.
Frequently asked questions
Cameron Wind Substation is located in Cameron County, Texas, United States, near the Gulf of Mexico coast.
The substation operates at 138 kV and 34.5 kV, typical for transmission and sub-transmission applications.
The substation is owned by IKEA, the multinational furniture retailer, as part of its renewable energy investments.
US substations must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission assets, along with IEEE standards for equipment.
The substation connects wind energy resources to the ERCOT grid, facilitating renewable energy integration and supporting regional electricity supply.