Overview
Castle Gap Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by American Electric Power. It operates at a voltage of 138 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Castle Gap Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by American Electric Power, the facility is part of the broader electrical infrastructure that supports the region's power distribution and transmission needs. With a voltage level of 138 kV, it is classified as a high-voltage substation, typically serving as a critical link between transmission and distribution networks. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards and oversee interstate electricity transmission. As part of the American Electric Power system, it adheres to stringent operational protocols to ensure grid stability and safety. The 138 kV voltage level is common for subtransmission systems, facilitating power delivery to industrial and urban areas. Castle Gap Substation plays a vital role in maintaining grid reliability in the region. Its location in Texas, a state with a large and growing energy demand, underscores its importance in supporting local communities and industries. The facility's operational status ensures continued service, contributing to the resilience of the electrical infrastructure in the area.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a semi-arid region of Texas, characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures. The surrounding landscape is primarily rural, with sparse vegetation and agricultural land use. The facility's operation is subject to environmental regulations that manage potential impacts such as electromagnetic fields, noise, and stormwater runoff. Its location away from densely populated areas reduces direct environmental exposure, though it remains part of a broader grid that supports energy-intensive activities.
Frequently asked questions
Castle Gap Substation is located in Texas, United States, at coordinates 31.115715, -102.295052.
Castle Gap Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for subtransmission and distribution substations in the United States.
Castle Gap Substation is owned and operated by American Electric Power, a major utility company in the United States.
As part of the US electrical grid, Castle Gap Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets.
A 138 kV substation serves as a key node in the electrical grid, stepping down voltage from transmission lines for distribution to industrial, commercial, and residential customers.