Overview
Hilcorp Substation, operated by Texas-New Mexico Power, is an operational 69 kV substation in the United States. It plays a role in regional grid stability and electricity distribution.
Hilcorp Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, specifically in the service area of Texas-New Mexico Power. The facility operates at a voltage level of 69 kV, which classifies it as a medium-voltage substation typical for sub-transmission and distribution networks. This voltage level is common for serving industrial, commercial, and residential loads in the region. As part of the Texas-New Mexico Power system, Hilcorp Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). These standards ensure reliability and security of the bulk power system. The substation likely includes switchgear, transformers, and protection systems compliant with industry standards such as IEEE and ISO/IEC 61850 for substation automation. The substation contributes to the electrical infrastructure of the local area, supporting grid stability and power delivery. Its location in Texas, a state with a large and growing energy demand, underscores its importance in maintaining reliable electricity supply. The facility's operational status indicates ongoing service to the community and industrial users in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region with a subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters, which influences cooling and insulation requirements for electrical equipment. The area's flat terrain and proximity to the Gulf Coast may expose the facility to humidity and occasional severe weather, necessitating robust design and maintenance practices. The substation's role in distributing power to local industries and communities supports economic activity while requiring careful management of electromagnetic fields and potential impacts on nearby ecosystems.
Frequently asked questions
Hilcorp Substation is located in the United States, within the service territory of Texas-New Mexico Power. Its approximate coordinates are 29.0456 N, -95.7454 W.
Hilcorp Substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which is a common sub-transmission voltage level used for distributing electricity from transmission lines to local distribution networks.
Hilcorp Substation is operated by Texas-New Mexico Power, a utility company serving parts of Texas and New Mexico.
As part of the US electrical grid, Hilcorp Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. It also likely follows IEEE and ISO/IEC 61850 standards for substation design and automation.
A 69 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission levels (e.g., 138 kV or 230 kV) to distribution levels (e.g., 12 kV or 34.5 kV). It serves as a critical node for distributing power to industrial, commercial, and residential customers.