Overview
Fort Gates Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by Brazos Electric. It operates at 69 kV, serving as a key node in the regional power grid.
Fort Gates Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by Brazos Electric, a major electric cooperative in the state, the facility plays a critical role in the transmission and distribution of electricity within the region. With a voltage level of 69 kV, it is classified as a medium-voltage substation, typical for sub-transmission and distribution networks. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards for the bulk power system. As part of the Texas Interconnection, it is also subject to the oversight of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which manages the grid for most of the state. The 69 kV voltage level is common for local distribution and industrial supply, and the substation likely includes switchgear and transformers to step down voltage for end users. Fort Gates Substation contributes to the electrical infrastructure of central Texas, supporting residential, commercial, and industrial loads. Its location near the city of Gatesville ensures reliable power supply to the surrounding communities. The facility's operational status and integration into the Brazos Electric network underscore its importance in maintaining grid stability and meeting regional energy demands.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of central Texas, characterized by rolling hills and agricultural land. The local environment is typical of the Texas Hill Country, with moderate climate and occasional severe weather events such as thunderstorms and ice storms that can impact grid reliability. The facility's design likely incorporates measures to withstand such conditions, including robust grounding and insulation. The surrounding ecosystem includes grasslands and woodlands, and the substation's electromagnetic fields are managed within regulatory limits to minimize ecological impact.
Frequently asked questions
Fort Gates Substation is located in Texas, United States, near the city of Gatesville in Coryell County.
Fort Gates Substation operates at 69 kV (69,000 volts), which is a medium voltage level commonly used for sub-transmission and distribution.
Fort Gates Substation is owned and operated by Brazos Electric, an electric cooperative serving central Texas.
The substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, as well as ERCOT grid requirements for the Texas Interconnection.
A 69 kV substation typically steps down transmission voltage for local distribution, supplying power to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the surrounding area.