Overview
Elcor Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, serving the regional power grid with voltage transformation and distribution capabilities.
Elcor Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, specifically at coordinates 31.354363, -104.393967. As a substation, it plays a critical role in the electrical infrastructure by stepping down high-voltage transmission power to lower voltages for local distribution, or by interconnecting different parts of the grid. The facility is part of the broader North American power system, which is regulated by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for reliability and market oversight. Substations of this type typically operate at transmission voltages (e.g., 115 kV, 230 kV, or 500 kV) and are equipped with switchgear, circuit breakers, and protection systems compliant with standards like IEEE C37 and IEC 61850 for automation. The facility's location in a remote area of Texas suggests it may serve rural or industrial loads, possibly supporting oil and gas operations or renewable energy integration from nearby wind or solar farms. Operationally, Elcor Substation contributes to grid stability and reliability in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) region, which manages about 90% of the state's electric load. Its role in voltage regulation and power flow control is essential for maintaining system balance, especially during peak demand or extreme weather events. The substation's continued operation supports local communities and industries by ensuring consistent electricity supply.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a semi-arid region of West Texas, characterized by low rainfall and high temperatures. The surrounding landscape is primarily desert scrub and grassland, with minimal vegetation. Electrical infrastructure in such areas must be designed to withstand dust, heat, and occasional severe storms. The facility's footprint is relatively small, and its environmental impact is limited to localized electromagnetic fields and potential oil leakage from transformers, which are managed through standard containment measures.
Frequently asked questions
Elcor Substation is located in the United States at coordinates 31.354363, -104.393967, in a remote area of West Texas.
Elcor Substation is currently operational, meaning it is active and functioning as part of the electrical grid.
As part of the US electrical grid, Elcor Substation operates under NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and compliance with federal requirements.
Substations like Elcor transform voltage levels, switch circuits, and protect the grid from faults. They are critical for transmitting electricity from generation sources to distribution networks.
By regulating voltage and managing power flow, Elcor Substation helps maintain grid stability within the ERCOT region, especially during peak demand or extreme weather events.