Overview
David M. Barnes Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, operating at 115 kV. It plays a role in regional grid stability and power distribution.
David M. Barnes Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, with coordinates 43.024, -78.499. The facility operates at a voltage of 115 kV, placing it in the medium-to-high voltage range typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations. As a substation, it serves as a critical node for stepping down voltage from transmission lines to lower levels for local distribution. 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 the bulk power system. In the United States, substations like this one are essential for maintaining grid stability and ensuring compliance with NERC's Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards. The 115 kV voltage level is common for sub-transmission networks that connect major transmission lines to distribution systems. Environmentally, the substation's location in a region with coordinates near 43.024, -78.499 suggests it may serve urban or suburban areas, where reliable electrical infrastructure is critical for residential, commercial, and industrial consumers. Substations of this type contribute to grid resilience by enabling load balancing and fault isolation.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a region with a temperate climate, where seasonal weather variations can impact grid operations. As a 115 kV substation, it is part of the sub-transmission network that connects bulk power systems to local distribution. Its urban or suburban setting means it supports high-density load areas, making reliability and voltage regulation key environmental considerations. The facility's design likely includes measures to mitigate electromagnetic fields and ensure safe operation near populated areas.
Frequently asked questions
David M. Barnes Substation is located in the United States at coordinates 43.023987, -78.498947. The facility is operational and serves the regional electrical grid.
David M. Barnes Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
Electrical substations in the United States are regulated by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). NERC enforces reliability standards, while FERC oversees interstate electricity transmission.
A 115 kV substation steps down voltage from higher transmission levels (e.g., 230 kV or 345 kV) to lower distribution levels (e.g., 34.5 kV or 12.47 kV). It also provides switching, protection, and monitoring functions to ensure grid stability and reliability.
Substations must manage electromagnetic fields, noise from transformers, and potential oil spills from equipment. They are often designed with containment systems and landscaping to minimize visual impact. Compliance with local environmental regulations is required.