Overview
Clifftop Substation is an operational electrical substation in West Virginia, United States, owned and operated by Appalachian Power Company. It operates at 138 kV and 13.09 kV voltage levels.
Clifftop Substation is an operational electrical substation located in West Virginia, United States. Owned and operated by Appalachian Power Company, the facility is part of the regional transmission network serving the Appalachian region. The substation handles voltage levels of 138 kV and 13.09 kV, indicating it serves both transmission and distribution functions. As a substation in the United States, Clifftop Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). These bodies enforce reliability standards for the bulk power system, ensuring grid stability and security. The facility's voltage level of 138 kV is typical for sub-transmission or transmission applications, connecting higher-voltage lines to local distribution networks. The substation plays a critical role in delivering electricity to the surrounding community, supporting residential, commercial, and industrial loads in the region. Its location in West Virginia, a state with significant coal and natural gas generation, positions it within a diverse energy landscape. The facility's operational status and ownership by a major utility underscore its importance to local grid reliability.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of West Virginia, characterized by mountainous terrain and forested landscapes. The region's electrical infrastructure must contend with challenging topography and weather conditions, including winter storms that can affect overhead lines. The facility's voltage level and design are typical for serving dispersed communities in such environments, with considerations for minimizing environmental footprint through compact design and use of existing corridors.
Frequently asked questions
Clifftop Substation is located in West Virginia, United States, near coordinates 37.7687 N, -81.1084 W.
Clifftop Substation operates at 138 kV and 13.09 kV, serving both transmission and distribution functions.
Clifftop Substation is owned and operated by Appalachian Power Company, a major utility in the region.
As a US substation, Clifftop Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for grid stability and security.
Substations like Clifftop transform voltage levels and route electricity between transmission and distribution networks, ensuring reliable power delivery to consumers.