Overview
Chelan Falls Substation & Switchyard is an operational electrical substation in Washington State, USA, owned and operated by Chelan County PUD. It plays a key role in regional grid stability.
Chelan Falls Substation & Switchyard is an operational electrical substation located in Chelan County, Washington, United States. Owned and operated by Chelan County Public Utility District (PUD), this facility is part of the region's electrical infrastructure that supports power distribution and transmission. As a substation, it serves as a critical node for voltage regulation and grid interconnection, typical of medium to large-scale facilities in the Pacific Northwest. 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 transmission-level assets. While specific voltage levels are not detailed, substations in this region often handle voltages ranging from 115 kV to 500 kV, reflecting their importance in the regional power grid. The facility's location near the Columbia River suggests integration with hydroelectric generation, a dominant energy source in Washington. Environmentally, the substation's presence supports the integration of renewable energy sources, such as hydropower and wind, into the grid. Its operational status ensures reliable electricity supply to local communities and industries, contributing to the economic vitality of Chelan County. The facility's role in voltage stability and load balancing underscores its significance in maintaining grid reliability and supporting the region's clean energy goals.
Environmental context
Located in Chelan County, Washington, the substation operates in a region dominated by hydroelectric power from the Columbia River. Its role in voltage regulation and grid stability is critical for integrating variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar. The facility's urban-rural interface location minimizes direct environmental impact while supporting clean energy transmission.
Frequently asked questions
Chelan Falls Substation & Switchyard is located in Chelan County, Washington, United States, near the Columbia River.
The substation is owned and operated by Chelan County Public Utility District (PUD), a public utility serving the region.
Substations like Chelan Falls regulate voltage, switch circuits, and interconnect transmission lines to ensure reliable electricity distribution and grid stability.
As part of the US electrical grid, it must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets.
The substation facilitates the integration of hydroelectric and other renewable sources by maintaining voltage stability and enabling efficient power flow.