Dardanelle Substation - 161 kV Electrical Substation in Arkansas, United States

Dardanelle Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Arkansas, United States. Owned by the Southwestern Power Administration, it plays a key role in the regional transmission network. The facility operates at a voltage of 161 kV, placing it in the medium-to-high voltage range typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes NERC reliability standards and FERC oversight for transmission-level assets. As part of the Southwestern Power Administration's infrastructure, it contributes to the federal power marketing system that delivers hydroelectric power across the central United States. The 161 kV voltage level is commonly used for regional power distribution and interconnection with local utilities. Environmentally, the substation is situated in a rural area near Dardanelle, Arkansas, where it supports the local electrical grid. Its operation is critical for maintaining reliable power supply to surrounding communities and industries. The facility's age and specific switchgear details are not publicly available, but its continued operational status indicates ongoing maintenance and compliance with industry standards.

The substation is located in a rural area of Arkansas, where the local environment includes agricultural lands and the Arkansas River valley. Electrical infrastructure in such settings typically requires careful management of vegetation and wildlife interactions to prevent outages. The 161 kV voltage level indicates moderate electromagnetic field exposure, which is managed through standard siting and shielding practices.