Overview
Elko Substation is an operational electrical substation in Pennsylvania, United States, owned and operated by West Penn Power. It handles voltages of 230 kV and 138 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Elko Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Pennsylvania, United States. Owned and operated by West Penn Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy, the facility plays a critical role in the regional power transmission network. The substation handles high-voltage electricity at 230 kV and 138 kV, typical for bulk power transfer and distribution to local utilities. Operating under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), Elko Substation must comply with mandatory reliability standards. These standards ensure grid stability, including voltage regulation, protection coordination, and cybersecurity measures. The substation's dual-voltage capability allows it to interconnect different parts of the grid, enhancing system flexibility. As part of the Pennsylvania-New Jersey-Maryland (PJM) Interconnection, the largest competitive wholesale electricity market in the U.S., Elko Substation contributes to reliable power supply for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Its location in rural Pennsylvania supports the region's energy infrastructure, facilitating the integration of generation sources and load centers.
Environmental context
Located in a rural area of Pennsylvania, the substation's environmental context is shaped by its proximity to forests and agricultural land. Electrical infrastructure like Elko Substation can impact local ecosystems through electromagnetic fields and land use, though modern designs incorporate mitigation measures. The facility's role in the grid supports the integration of renewable energy sources, contributing to broader environmental goals.
Frequently asked questions
Elko Substation is located in Pennsylvania, United States, at coordinates 41.365166, -78.598644. It is owned and operated by West Penn Power.
Elko Substation handles two voltage levels: 230 kV and 138 kV. These are typical for high-voltage transmission and sub-transmission in the U.S. grid.
Elko Substation is operated by West Penn Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corporation, which serves customers in Pennsylvania and other states.
Elko Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, which govern grid stability, maintenance, and cybersecurity for transmission assets.
Elko Substation is part of the PJM Interconnection, the largest wholesale electricity market in the U.S. It helps transmit power from generators to distribution networks, ensuring reliable electricity supply.