Overview
Katz Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by Brazos Electric. It operates at a voltage of 69 kV, serving as a key node in the regional power grid.
Katz Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by Brazos Electric, the facility plays a role in the state's electrical infrastructure, which is part of the larger Texas Interconnection grid managed by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). The substation's voltage level of 69 kV places it in the sub-transmission category, typical for distributing power to local distribution networks. As part of the ERCOT system, Katz Substation operates under Texas-specific reliability standards and is subject to NERC reliability standards for bulk power system assets. The facility's equipment likely includes circuit breakers, transformers, and switchgear designed for 69 kV operation. Substations of this voltage level are common in rural and suburban areas, serving as intermediate points between high-voltage transmission lines and lower-voltage distribution feeders. The substation's location in Texas, a state with significant energy demand and a diverse generation mix including natural gas, wind, and solar, underscores its role in maintaining grid stability. Katz Substation contributes to the reliable delivery of electricity to local communities and industrial customers, supporting the region's economic activities and daily power needs.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Texas, where the surrounding landscape is primarily agricultural and semi-arid. The facility's operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential noise from transformers, which are typical for substations of this scale. Its location away from dense urban centers reduces direct environmental impact on populations, but the infrastructure supports the integration of renewable energy sources like wind and solar, contributing to broader environmental benefits.
Frequently asked questions
Katz Substation is located in Texas, United States, near coordinates 33.397226, -100.010362. It is part of the Brazos Electric power system.
Katz Substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which is a sub-transmission voltage level commonly used for distributing power to local distribution networks.
Katz Substation is owned and operated by Brazos Electric, an electric cooperative that provides power to member distribution cooperatives in Texas.
As part of the ERCOT grid, Katz Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards for bulk power system assets, as well as Texas-specific regulations for electric utilities.
A 69 kV substation serves as an intermediate step between high-voltage transmission lines (typically 138 kV and above) and lower-voltage distribution lines (e.g., 12 kV). It steps down voltage for local distribution and may also provide switching and protection functions.