Overview
Craigsville Substation is an operational electrical substation in Virginia, United States, owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company. It handles voltages of 115 kV and 23 kV, serving the local grid.
Craigsville Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Virginia, United States. Owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy, the facility plays a role in the regional transmission and distribution network. The substation's voltage levels of 115 kV and 23 kV indicate it serves both transmission and distribution functions, typical for a medium-scale substation in the US grid. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for bulk power systems. As part of the PJM Interconnection, the facility adheres to grid stability and operational protocols. The 115 kV voltage level is common for sub-transmission, while 23 kV is typical for local distribution, suggesting the substation steps down power for nearby communities. Craigsville Substation contributes to the electrical infrastructure of rural Virginia, supporting local residential and commercial loads. Its location in Augusta County places it within a region with diverse energy needs, from agriculture to small industry. The substation's operational status ensures continued reliability for the surrounding area, aligning with Dominion Energy's commitment to grid resilience.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Virginia, characterized by forested hills and agricultural land. The local environment may be sensitive to electromagnetic fields and habitat fragmentation, though substations typically have a small footprint. Older switchgear could pose environmental risks such as oil leaks. The rural location reduces urban heat island effects but may require vegetation management to prevent outages.
Frequently asked questions
Craigsville Substation is located in Virginia, United States, near the town of Craigsville in Augusta County. Its approximate coordinates are 38.082844 N, -79.384848 W.
Craigsville Substation handles voltages of 115,000 volts (115 kV) and 23,000 volts (23 kV). The 115 kV level is used for sub-transmission, while 23 kV is for local distribution.
Craigsville Substation is owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy, one of the largest utility companies in the United States.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. For facilities in the PJM Interconnection, additional grid stability and operational protocols apply.
Substations are critical nodes in the electrical grid that transform voltage levels, switch circuits, and protect the system. They enable the transmission of power from generation sources to distribution networks serving homes and businesses.