Overview
Dighton Substation is an operational electrical substation in Dighton, Massachusetts, owned and operated by National Grid. It operates at 115 kV, serving the regional power grid.
Dighton Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Dighton, Massachusetts, United States. Owned and operated by National Grid, the facility plays a key role in the regional transmission network, stepping down high-voltage electricity for local distribution. As a 115 kV substation, it is classified as a medium-voltage facility within the broader electrical infrastructure. The substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. These standards ensure grid stability and security, with requirements for maintenance, cybersecurity, and emergency response. The facility's equipment likely includes circuit breakers, transformers, and switchgear compliant with ISO/IEC 61850 automation standards. Located in southeastern Massachusetts, Dighton Substation supports the region's growing energy demands, including residential, commercial, and industrial loads. Its proximity to urban areas like Taunton and Fall River underscores its importance in maintaining reliable electricity supply. The substation's operational status contributes to grid resilience in a region prone to coastal storms and extreme weather events.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a mixed suburban and rural area of Massachusetts, where electrical infrastructure must balance reliability with environmental considerations. The 115 kV voltage level indicates a distribution-level facility that connects to local power lines, potentially impacting nearby habitats through electromagnetic fields and land use. National Grid likely implements vegetation management and wildlife protection measures to minimize ecological disruption.
Frequently asked questions
Dighton Substation is located in Dighton, Massachusetts, United States, at coordinates 41.816227, -71.136066.
Dighton Substation is owned and operated by National Grid, a major utility company serving the northeastern United States.
Dighton Substation operates at 115 kV (115,000 volts), which is a common voltage for subtransmission and distribution substations.
As part of the US electrical grid, Dighton Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and security.
A 115 kV substation steps down high-voltage electricity from transmission lines to lower voltages for local distribution, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers.