Overview
Ellington Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by CenterPoint Energy. It handles voltages of 138 kV and 12.5 kV, serving the local grid.
Ellington Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States, owned and operated by CenterPoint Energy. The facility plays a key role in the regional power distribution network, stepping down transmission-level voltage for local distribution. The substation operates with voltage levels of 138,000 volts (138 kV) on the transmission side and 12,500 volts (12.5 kV) on the distribution side. This voltage configuration is typical for a medium-to-large substation serving industrial, commercial, and residential loads. As part of the U.S. grid, the facility adheres to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets, ensuring stable and secure power delivery. Located in the Houston metropolitan area, Ellington Substation supports the electrical infrastructure of a densely populated and industrially active region. Its operation is critical for maintaining grid stability and meeting the energy demands of local communities and businesses. The substation's integration into CenterPoint Energy's network underscores its importance in the broader Texas power system.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a subtropical climate zone near the Gulf Coast, where high humidity and occasional hurricanes pose operational challenges. Its urban location in the Houston area means it serves a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial customers, requiring robust design to withstand extreme weather events. The facility's voltage levels indicate a role in both transmission and distribution, with potential environmental considerations related to electromagnetic fields and land use in a developed area.
Frequently asked questions
Ellington Substation is located in Texas, United States, near the Houston metropolitan area at coordinates 29.588178, -95.180542.
Ellington Substation is owned and operated by CenterPoint Energy, a major utility company serving the Texas Gulf Coast region.
The substation handles transmission voltage of 138 kV and distribution voltage of 12.5 kV, stepping down power for local distribution.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission assets, ensuring grid stability and security.
Substations like Ellington transform voltage levels between transmission and distribution networks, enabling safe and efficient delivery of electricity to homes and businesses.