Overview
Guntersville Dam Substation is an operational electrical substation in Alabama, USA, owned and operated by TVA. It operates at a voltage of 161 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Guntersville Dam Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Alabama, United States. Owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), this facility is part of the extensive transmission infrastructure that supports the TVA power system. The substation operates at a voltage of 161 kV, which is a common transmission-level voltage in the United States, indicating its role in bulk power transfer. As a TVA asset, Guntersville Dam Substation falls under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. These standards ensure the stability and security of the interconnected grid. The substation likely employs modern switchgear and protection systems, consistent with industry practices for facilities of this voltage class. The substation's location near Guntersville Dam suggests it plays a critical role in integrating hydroelectric generation from the dam into the wider grid. By stepping up or stepping down voltage, it facilitates efficient power transmission to surrounding communities and industries. Its operational status contributes to the reliability of electricity supply in the Tennessee Valley region, supporting both residential and commercial customers.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region characterized by the Tennessee River and surrounding forests, which provide habitat for diverse wildlife. The facility's operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential oil spill risks from transformers, but standard mitigation measures are in place. Its proximity to the dam means it supports renewable hydroelectric power, contributing to lower carbon emissions compared to fossil fuel-based generation.
Frequently asked questions
Guntersville Dam Substation is located in Alabama, United States, near the Guntersville Dam on the Tennessee River.
The substation is owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federally owned electric utility company.
The substation operates at a voltage of 161 kV, which is a standard transmission voltage in the US electrical grid.
As part of the US bulk power system, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations to ensure grid stability.
The substation likely serves to interconnect hydroelectric generation from Guntersville Dam with the transmission grid, facilitating power distribution to the region.