Overview
Cominco Substation, operated by Minnkota Power Cooperative, is an operational 69 kV electrical substation located in North Dakota, United States, serving regional grid stability.
Cominco Substation is an operational electrical substation located in North Dakota, United States, operated by Minnkota Power Cooperative. The facility operates at a voltage level of 69 kV, placing it within the sub-transmission or distribution voltage range typical for regional power distribution in rural areas. As part of Minnkota Power Cooperative's network, it supports electricity delivery to member cooperatives and end-users in the region. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes compliance with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight for transmission-level assets. While 69 kV is below the typical threshold for NERC registration, the facility still adheres to applicable reliability and safety standards. The substation likely employs conventional switchgear and protection systems common for this voltage class. Cominco Substation plays a role in maintaining grid stability and power quality for the surrounding agricultural and rural communities in North Dakota. Its operation by a cooperative underscores its importance in delivering reliable electricity to member-owners. The facility's location in a region prone to extreme weather conditions necessitates robust design and maintenance practices to ensure continuous service.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of North Dakota, characterized by flat terrain and agricultural land use. The region experiences a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers, which can affect equipment performance and maintenance schedules. The facility's 69 kV voltage level indicates it serves local distribution needs, with minimal direct environmental footprint beyond land use and potential electromagnetic field considerations.
Frequently asked questions
Cominco Substation is located in North Dakota, United States, at coordinates 47.092431, -98.282409.
Cominco Substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission or distribution substations.
Cominco Substation is operated by Minnkota Power Cooperative, a generation and transmission cooperative serving member cooperatives in the region.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for bulk power system assets, though facilities below 100 kV may have different requirements. FERC regulates interstate transmission, and local utility commissions oversee distribution.
A 69 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission levels for local distribution or interconnects sub-transmission lines, serving industrial, commercial, and residential customers in a region.