Overview
Ida County Substation is an operational electrical substation in Iowa, United States, owned and operated by MidAmerican Energy. It handles voltages of 345 kV and 34.5 kV, serving the regional grid.
Ida County Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Ida County, Iowa, United States. Owned and operated by MidAmerican Energy, this facility plays a key role in the regional electrical infrastructure, stepping down high-voltage transmission power for local distribution. The substation operates at two voltage levels: 345 kV for transmission and 34.5 kV for sub-transmission or distribution, indicating its function as a bulk power delivery point. As part of the MidAmerican Energy network, it adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations for grid stability and safety. Located in a rural agricultural area of western Iowa, the substation supports the local community by ensuring reliable electricity supply. Its strategic position within the transmission grid helps maintain voltage stability and power flow, contributing to the overall resilience of the regional electrical system.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural agricultural region of Iowa, where the surrounding landscape consists primarily of farmland. Electrical infrastructure in such areas is critical for powering irrigation systems, grain processing, and rural communities. The facility's voltage levels and operational status indicate it is a key node in the local grid, with potential environmental considerations including electromagnetic field management and storm resilience.
Frequently asked questions
Ida County Substation is located in Ida County, Iowa, United States, at coordinates 42.371543, -95.491323.
Ida County Substation operates at 345 kV for transmission and 34.5 kV for sub-transmission or distribution, indicating its role in stepping down high-voltage power.
Ida County Substation is owned and operated by MidAmerican Energy, a major utility serving Iowa and surrounding states.
Substations in the US must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interstate transmission. MidAmerican Energy follows these to ensure safe and reliable operation.
Substations transform voltage levels, switch circuits, and protect the grid. They are critical nodes that connect transmission lines to distribution networks, ensuring electricity reaches consumers reliably.