Overview
East Elkhart Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, owned and operated by American Electric Power. It handles voltages of 345 kV and 138 kV, serving the regional grid.
East Elkhart Substation is a key electrical infrastructure facility located in the United States, owned and operated by American Electric Power. As a substation, it plays a critical role in voltage transformation and power distribution, operating at high voltage levels of 345 kV and 138 kV, indicating its importance in the transmission network. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards and oversee interstate electricity transmission. The substation's dual voltage levels suggest it serves both long-distance transmission and local distribution, typical of major substations in the US grid. East Elkhart Substation contributes to grid stability and reliability in the region, supporting the electrical needs of surrounding communities and industries. Its operational status and connection to American Electric Power's network underscore its role in maintaining a resilient power supply for the area.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a region with a mix of urban and rural areas, where electrical infrastructure must balance reliability with environmental considerations. High-voltage substations like East Elkhart are typically designed with safety and environmental safeguards, including oil containment systems and noise mitigation. The facility's operation aligns with NERC standards that require vegetation management and equipment maintenance to minimize ecological impact.
Frequently asked questions
East Elkhart Substation is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 41.7065° N, -85.8630° W. It is owned and operated by American Electric Power.
East Elkhart Substation operates at two voltage levels: 345 kV and 138 kV. The 345 kV level is used for high-voltage transmission, while 138 kV serves sub-transmission and distribution.
East Elkhart Substation is owned and operated by American Electric Power (AEP), a major investor-owned utility in the United States.
As part of the US electrical grid, East Elkhart Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission assets. These standards ensure grid stability and operational safety.
Substations like East Elkhart transform voltage levels, switch circuits, and protect the grid. They are critical nodes that enable efficient power transmission from generators to consumers.