Overview
Kings Fork Substation is an operational electrical substation in Virginia, United States, operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company. It operates at 230 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Kings Fork Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Virginia, United States. Owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy, this facility plays a critical role in the regional power transmission network. The substation operates at a voltage of 230 kV, classifying it as a high-voltage transmission asset within the US electrical infrastructure. As a 230 kV substation, Kings Fork Substation is subject to the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations for transmission-level assets. These frameworks ensure grid stability, cybersecurity, and operational resilience. The substation likely employs modern switchgear and protection systems compliant with industry standards such as IEEE C37, though specific equipment details are not disclosed. The substation's location in southeastern Virginia supports the growing energy demands of the region, including residential, commercial, and industrial consumers. Its role in the grid is essential for maintaining voltage stability and power flow, particularly as the region integrates renewable energy sources. The facility's operational status and regulatory compliance contribute to the reliability of the broader Eastern Interconnection.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region with a mix of urban and rural areas, where electrical infrastructure must balance reliability with environmental considerations. High-voltage substations like Kings Fork typically have minimal direct environmental impact, but their operation supports the integration of cleaner energy sources. The surrounding area's climate and geography do not pose extreme risks to the facility, though standard mitigation measures for storm events are in place.
Frequently asked questions
Kings Fork Substation is located in Virginia, United States, at coordinates 36.784199, -76.602250. It is owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company.
Kings Fork Substation operates at 230 kV, which is a high-voltage level used for transmission of electricity over long distances to distribution networks.
Kings Fork Substation is operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy, one of the largest energy producers and utilities in the United States.
As a transmission-level substation in the US, Kings Fork Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and security.
A 230 kV substation like Kings Fork steps down high-voltage electricity from transmission lines to lower voltages for distribution, or interconnects different parts of the grid to balance load and improve reliability.