Overview
Cottondale Substation is an operational electrical substation in Alabama, United States, owned and operated by Alabama Power. It handles voltages of 115 kV and 13.09 kV, serving the local grid.
Cottondale Substation is an electrical substation located in Alabama, United States, owned and operated by Alabama Power. As a substation, it plays a critical role in stepping down transmission-level voltages for distribution to residential and commercial customers. The facility is operational and forms part of the broader electrical infrastructure serving the region. The substation operates at two voltage levels: 115,000 volts (115 kV) for transmission and 13,090 volts (13.09 kV) for distribution. This dual-voltage configuration is typical for substations that connect high-voltage transmission lines to lower-voltage distribution networks. Alabama Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company, is a major utility in the southeastern US, and its substations are subject to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for grid stability. Located near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Cottondale Substation supports the electrical needs of the surrounding community and industrial base. Its role in voltage transformation is essential for reliable power delivery. The facility's operational status ensures continued service to the local grid, contributing to the region's energy resilience.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region with a humid subtropical climate, which can affect equipment performance and maintenance schedules. Its location in a mixed urban-rural area near Tuscaloosa means it supports both residential and industrial loads. The presence of Alabama Power's infrastructure aligns with state-level energy policies and grid modernization efforts.
Frequently asked questions
Cottondale Substation is located in Alabama, United States, near the city of Tuscaloosa. Its coordinates are approximately 33.180163° N, -87.466422° W.
Cottondale Substation operates at two voltage levels: 115,000 volts (115 kV) for transmission and 13,090 volts (13.09 kV) for distribution.
Cottondale Substation is owned and operated by Alabama Power, a major utility company in the southeastern United States and a subsidiary of Southern Company.
Substations in the United States, including Cottondale, are subject to NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets. Alabama Power must comply with these to ensure safe and reliable operation.
A substation like Cottondale transforms voltage levels between transmission and distribution networks, enabling efficient long-distance power transmission and safe local distribution. It also provides switching, protection, and monitoring functions.