Overview
Ironwood Substation is an operational electrical substation owned by Xcel Energy in the United States. It handles multiple voltage levels including 115 kV, 34 kV, and 4.16 kV.
Ironwood Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, owned and operated by Xcel Energy. The facility serves as a key node in the regional power grid, stepping down transmission-level voltages for local distribution. Its voltage levels of 115 kV, 34 kV, and 4.16 kV indicate a substation that connects high-voltage transmission lines to medium- and low-voltage distribution networks. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Ironwood Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). These bodies enforce reliability standards for bulk power systems, ensuring grid stability and security. The substation likely employs modern automation and protection systems compliant with standards such as IEEE C37 for switchgear and relays. The substation plays a critical role in delivering electricity to surrounding communities and industries. Its location in a region with potential for extreme weather conditions, such as winter storms, necessitates robust design and maintenance practices. Xcel Energy, as a major utility, integrates such substations into a broader grid management strategy to maintain reliable service.
Environmental context
The substation's location in a northern U.S. region with cold winters and potential snowfall requires infrastructure designed to withstand ice loading and low temperatures. The surrounding area may include forests or rural landscapes, where substations must be sited to minimize ecological disruption while ensuring access for maintenance. Electromagnetic fields from high-voltage equipment are managed through standard setback distances and shielding.
Frequently asked questions
Ironwood Substation is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 46.448427 N, -90.166875 W. It is owned and operated by Xcel Energy.
Ironwood Substation handles multiple voltage levels: 115,000 volts (115 kV), 34,000 volts (34 kV), and 4,160 volts (4.16 kV). These voltages serve transmission and distribution functions.
Ironwood Substation is owned and operated by Xcel Energy, a major utility company serving customers in multiple U.S. states.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for bulk power systems and FERC regulations. Equipment often follows IEEE standards such as C37 for switchgear and C57 for transformers.
By stepping down high transmission voltages to distribution levels, Ironwood Substation enables safe and efficient delivery of electricity to homes and businesses. Its multiple voltage levels provide flexibility for different load requirements.