Overview
Chatom Substation is an operational electrical substation in Alabama, United States, owned by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative. It operates at 230 kV and 46 kV voltage levels, serving the local grid.
Chatom Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Alabama, United States. Owned by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, the facility plays a key role in the regional transmission and distribution network. The substation handles voltage levels of 230 kV and 46 kV, indicating its function in both high-voltage transmission and lower-voltage distribution. 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 part of the U.S. grid, it adheres to NERC's Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards. The facility's voltage levels suggest it is a medium-to-large substation, typical for rural and suburban areas in the southeastern United States. Chatom Substation contributes to grid stability and power delivery in the region. Its location in Alabama, a state with a mix of industrial and residential demand, underscores its importance in maintaining reliable electricity supply. The substation's operational status and ownership by a cooperative highlight its role in serving local communities and supporting the broader electrical infrastructure.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Alabama, where the surrounding environment includes forests and agricultural land. Electrical infrastructure in such settings must balance operational needs with environmental considerations, such as minimizing land use and managing potential impacts on local wildlife. The facility's voltage levels and location influence its environmental footprint, with typical substations requiring clearance for transmission lines and equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Chatom Substation is located in Alabama, United States, near the coordinates 31.496538, -88.236409.
Chatom Substation operates at 230 kV and 46 kV, serving both transmission and distribution functions.
Chatom Substation is owned by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, a generation and transmission cooperative serving Alabama and Florida.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, Chatom Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, including Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) requirements.
Substations like Chatom transform voltage levels and switch power flows, enabling efficient transmission and distribution of electricity from generation sources to end users.