Overview
Chaffins Substation is an operational electrical substation in Holden, Massachusetts, operated by Holden Municipal Light Department. It operates at 69 kV, serving the local municipal grid.
Chaffins Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Holden, Massachusetts, United States. It is owned and operated by Holden Municipal Light Department, a municipal utility serving the local community. The substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, placing it in the medium-voltage range typical for distribution-level infrastructure. 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 for the bulk power system. As a municipal utility asset, it also complies with state-level regulations from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities. The 69 kV voltage level is commonly used for subtransmission and distribution, connecting local load centers to higher-voltage transmission lines. Chaffins Substation plays a critical role in maintaining grid stability and reliability for the Holden area. It facilitates the distribution of electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial customers, supporting the local economy and community services. The substation's operational status ensures continuous power supply, and its integration with the broader New England grid enhances regional energy resilience.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a suburban area of Holden, Massachusetts, characterized by mixed residential and commercial land use. The surrounding environment includes wooded areas and proximity to local water bodies. Electrical infrastructure like Chaffins Substation is designed to minimize environmental impact through proper siting and use of insulating materials. The 69 kV voltage level is typical for distribution, and the substation's operation adheres to environmental regulations to manage electromagnetic fields and prevent oil leaks from equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Chaffins Substation is located in Holden, Massachusetts, United States, at coordinates 42.338679, -71.838883.
Chaffins Substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which is a common subtransmission and distribution voltage level in the United States.
Chaffins Substation is operated by Holden Municipal Light Department, a municipal utility serving the town of Holden, Massachusetts.
Chaffins Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for the bulk power system, as well as state-level regulations from the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities.
A 69 kV substation typically serves as a subtransmission or distribution substation, stepping down voltage from higher transmission lines to supply local distribution networks for residential, commercial, and industrial customers.