Overview
Del Bac Substation is an operational electrical substation in Tucson, Arizona, United States, operating at 115 kV for regional grid stability.
Del Bac Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Tucson, Arizona, United States. It serves as a key node in the regional power transmission network, stepping down high-voltage electricity for distribution to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The facility operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States. 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. As part of the Western Interconnection, the facility adheres to strict operational protocols to maintain grid stability and prevent cascading outages. The 115 kV voltage level places it in the medium-to-high voltage range, supporting local load centers and connecting to higher-voltage transmission lines. Del Bac Substation plays a critical role in the electrical infrastructure of the Tucson metropolitan area, ensuring reliable power supply to a growing urban population. Its operational status contributes to the resilience of the regional grid, particularly during peak demand periods or extreme weather events common in the Sonoran Desert. The facility's location in a densely populated area underscores its importance for community services and economic activities.
Environmental context
Located in the Sonoran Desert, the substation operates in an arid climate with high summer temperatures and monsoon storms, which can stress electrical equipment. The facility's urban setting near Tucson means it supports a large population center, with potential environmental considerations including electromagnetic fields and land use. The substation's design likely incorporates measures to withstand heat and dust, common in desert environments, to ensure continuous operation.
Frequently asked questions
Del Bac Substation is located in Tucson, Arizona, United States, at coordinates 32.135403, -110.988402.
Del Bac Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is a common sub-transmission voltage level in the United States.
Del Bac Substation is regulated by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for the U.S. bulk power system.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down high-voltage transmission power to distribution levels, serving local communities and industries. It also provides switching and protection functions to maintain grid stability.
As part of the Western Interconnection, Del Bac Substation helps balance load and supply in the Tucson area, ensuring reliable electricity delivery and supporting emergency response during outages or peak demand.