Overview
Kalama Substation is an operational electrical substation in Hawaii, United States, owned and operated by Hawaiian Electric Company. It handles voltages of 46 kV and 4.16 kV, serving the local grid.
Kalama Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Hawaii, United States. Owned and operated by Hawaiian Electric Company, the facility plays a key role in the state's electrical infrastructure, stepping down transmission voltages for distribution to customers. The substation operates at voltage levels of 46 kV and 4.16 kV, typical for a distribution substation that connects the high-voltage transmission grid to lower-voltage distribution networks. As part of the Hawaiian Electric system, it adheres to NERC reliability standards and is subject to FERC regulation for interstate transmission aspects. The facility's location in Hawaii, an island state with isolated grids, underscores its importance for local energy resilience. Environmental and operational significance includes supporting grid stability for the surrounding community, particularly given Hawaii's remote location and reliance on imported fuels. The substation's role in distributing power from generation sources to end users is critical for maintaining reliable electricity service in the region.
Environmental context
Located in Hawaii, an island state with unique grid challenges, Kalama Substation operates in a region prone to volcanic activity and tropical storms, which can impact infrastructure reliability. The substation's urban setting near residential and commercial areas requires careful management of electromagnetic fields and noise. Its role in distributing power from renewable sources, such as solar and wind, aligns with Hawaii's goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045.
Frequently asked questions
Kalama Substation is located in Hawaii, United States, at coordinates 21.408415, -157.746201.
Kalama Substation operates at voltage levels of 46 kV and 4.16 kV, typical for a distribution substation.
Kalama Substation is owned and operated by Hawaiian Electric Company, the primary electric utility serving Hawaii.
As part of the US electrical grid, Kalama Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets.
Hawaii's isolated grid requires reliable substations like Kalama to distribute power from generation sources to customers, supporting grid stability and renewable energy integration.