Overview
Fairland Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, owned and operated by Potomac Electric Power Company. It plays a key role in the regional power grid.
Fairland Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, owned and operated by Potomac Electric Power Company. As part of the Potomac Electric Power Company's infrastructure, it supports electricity distribution in the mid-Atlantic region, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ensuring compliance with reliability standards for transmission and distribution assets. While specific voltage levels are not detailed, typical substations in this region handle voltages ranging from 69 kV to 230 kV, facilitating grid stability and power flow management. Fairland Substation contributes to the reliability of the local electrical grid, supporting the growing energy demands of the surrounding communities. Its operational status ensures continued service, and its integration with the broader PJM Interconnection grid enhances regional energy security and resilience.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a suburban area of Maryland, near Washington, D.C., where urban development and green spaces coexist. Electrical infrastructure in such settings must balance reliability with environmental considerations, including electromagnetic field management and stormwater runoff control. The facility's age and technology type influence its environmental footprint, with modern substations often incorporating SF6-free switchgear and noise mitigation measures.
Frequently asked questions
Fairland Substation is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 39.063651 N, -76.964467 W, in the state of Maryland near Washington, D.C.
Fairland Substation is owned and operated by Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco), a utility serving the mid-Atlantic region.
As a substation, Fairland steps down high-voltage transmission electricity to lower voltages for distribution to homes and businesses, ensuring reliable power supply in its service area.
Fairland Substation operates under NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, which mandate grid stability, cybersecurity, and maintenance protocols for US electrical infrastructure.
By connecting to the PJM Interconnection grid, Fairland Substation helps balance electricity supply and demand, reducing the risk of outages and supporting regional energy resilience.