Overview
Electrical District No. 2 Substation is an operational substation in the United States, owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration. It operates at a voltage of 115 kV, serving the regional grid.
Electrical District No. 2 Substation is a high-voltage substation located in the United States, specifically in the state of Arizona near the city of Coolidge. Owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), a federal power marketing administration, this facility plays a key role in the transmission of electricity across the western United States. The substation operates at 115 kV, a standard voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution, indicating it serves as an intermediate node in the power grid. The substation is part of WAPA's extensive network that delivers hydroelectric power from federal dams to utilities and customers. As a 115 kV facility, it likely connects to larger transmission lines and distributes power to local distribution networks. The operational status is active, ensuring continuous service to the region. Regulatory oversight comes from the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which enforce reliability standards for the bulk power system. Located in rural Arizona, the substation supports agricultural and residential loads in the area. Its role in the grid is critical for maintaining voltage stability and reliability. The facility's age and specific equipment are not detailed, but typical substations of this voltage class use air-insulated switchgear. The environmental context includes the arid climate, which poses challenges for equipment cooling and vegetation management. Overall, the substation is a vital component of the regional electrical infrastructure.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in the Sonoran Desert region of Arizona, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The arid environment requires robust cooling systems for transformers and switchgear to prevent overheating. Dust and sand can affect insulation and maintenance schedules. The facility's location in a rural area minimizes direct impact on dense populations but requires careful land use planning to avoid interference with local wildlife and habitats.
Frequently asked questions
The substation is located in Arizona, United States, near the city of Coolidge. Its coordinates are approximately 32.87° N, -111.57° W.
The substation operates at 115 kV (115,000 volts), which is a common voltage for sub-transmission and distribution networks.
The substation is owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), a U.S. federal agency that markets and transmits hydroelectric power.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. These ensure grid stability and security.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission lines (e.g., 230 kV or 500 kV) for distribution to local networks, serving industrial, commercial, and residential customers.