Overview
Elba Substation is an operational electrical substation in Alabama, United States, owned and operated by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative. It operates at a voltage of 46 kV, serving the local grid.
Elba Substation is an electrical substation located in Alabama, United States, owned and operated by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative. The facility is operational and plays a role in the regional power distribution network, stepping down transmission voltages for local use. Operating at 46 kV, Elba Substation is a medium-voltage substation typical of distribution-level infrastructure in the United States. As part of the PowerSouth Energy Cooperative system, it is subject to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulation for grid stability and interconnection requirements. The substation likely includes switchgear, transformers, and protection systems compliant with IEEE standards. Elba Substation supports the electrical infrastructure of the surrounding community, contributing to reliable power delivery in Coffee County and nearby areas. Its operation is critical for maintaining grid stability and meeting local demand, particularly during peak load periods. The facility's location in rural Alabama underscores its role in extending grid access to less densely populated regions.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Alabama, where the local environment includes mixed forest and agricultural land. Electrical infrastructure in such settings must consider potential impacts on wildlife and vegetation, particularly during construction and maintenance. The 46 kV voltage level indicates a distribution substation, which typically has a smaller footprint and lower environmental disturbance compared to high-voltage transmission facilities. Proper siting and mitigation measures help minimize ecological disruption.
Frequently asked questions
Elba Substation is located in Alabama, United States, near the town of Elba in Coffee County. Its approximate coordinates are 31.417008 N, -86.079380 W.
Elba Substation operates at a voltage of 46 kV, which is typical for distribution-level substations that step down power from transmission lines for local distribution.
Elba Substation is owned and operated by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative, a generation and transmission cooperative serving Alabama and parts of Florida.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interstate transmission. Additionally, IEEE standards such as IEEE C37 for switchgear and IEEE 80 for grounding are commonly applied.
A 46 kV substation typically serves as a distribution substation, transforming higher transmission voltages (e.g., 115 kV or 230 kV) to lower voltages for local distribution to homes and businesses. It also provides switching and protection functions to maintain grid reliability.