Overview
Clinch River Substation is an operational electrical substation in Virginia, United States, owned by Appalachian Power Company. It operates at 138 kV, serving the regional grid.
Clinch River Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Virginia, United States. Owned by Appalachian Power Company, a subsidiary of American Electric Power, this facility plays a role in the regional transmission network. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level infrastructure in the United States. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Clinch River Substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. These standards ensure grid stability and security, including requirements for maintenance, protection systems, and operational coordination. The 138 kV voltage level indicates that this substation likely serves as a distribution hub for local communities or industrial customers. Environmental and operational significance of Clinch River Substation lies in its role in delivering electricity to the surrounding region. Substations like this are critical for voltage regulation and load balancing, supporting residential, commercial, and industrial energy needs. The facility's location in Virginia places it within the PJM Interconnection, one of the largest regional transmission organizations in the U.S., which coordinates the movement of wholesale electricity across multiple states.
Environmental context
The Clinch River Substation is situated in a region characterized by mixed terrain, including forested areas and river valleys. The local environment may be influenced by the presence of electrical infrastructure, which can have impacts such as electromagnetic fields and habitat fragmentation. However, substations are typically designed with environmental considerations, including oil containment systems for transformers and noise mitigation measures. The area's climate, with seasonal temperature variations, requires robust equipment design to ensure reliable operation.
Frequently asked questions
Clinch River Substation is located in Virginia, United States, near the Clinch River. Its coordinates are approximately 36.93° N, -82.20° W.
Clinch River Substation is owned by Appalachian Power Company, a subsidiary of American Electric Power, which serves customers in Virginia, West Virginia, and Tennessee.
Clinch River Substation operates at 138 kV (138,000 volts), which is a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Clinch River Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. It also operates within the PJM Interconnection, which coordinates regional transmission.
A 138 kV substation typically steps down transmission voltage for distribution to local areas or serves as a switching station for regional power flow. It is critical for grid stability and reliable electricity supply.