Overview
La Pointe is a 69 kV substation located in the United States, serving as a node in the regional electrical grid. It operates under NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations.
La Pointe is a substation located in the United States, with coordinates 43.027955, -91.136914. It operates at a voltage level of 69 kV, classifying it as a medium-voltage substation typical of distribution-level infrastructure. The facility is currently operational and plays a role in stepping down transmission voltages for local distribution or interconnecting regional power flows. The substation operates within the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for the bulk power system. As a 69 kV facility, it is subject to NERC's Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards if deemed critical to grid stability. The equipment likely includes circuit breakers, transformers, and switchgear compliant with IEEE and ANSI standards. Environmentally, the substation's location in the Upper Midwest region of the United States means it may be exposed to seasonal weather extremes, including snow and ice, which can affect equipment reliability. Its role in the local grid supports residential and commercial electricity demand, contributing to community resilience. Typical substations of this voltage class have a lifespan of 30-50 years with proper upkeep.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area near the Mississippi River, where the local environment includes agricultural land and riverine ecosystems. The 69 kV voltage level indicates a distribution substation that may serve nearby communities or industrial loads. Seasonal weather patterns, including winter storms and summer heat, can impact equipment performance, necessitating robust insulation and cooling systems. The facility's footprint is relatively small, with minimal direct environmental impact beyond electromagnetic fields and potential oil containment from transformers.
Frequently asked questions
La Pointe substation is located in the United States at coordinates 43.027955, -91.136914, near the Mississippi River in the Upper Midwest region.
La Pointe substation operates at 69 kV, which is a medium voltage level commonly used for sub-transmission and distribution in the United States.
La Pointe substation is currently operational, as indicated by its status in the facility record.
As a substation in the United States, La Pointe operates under NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, which govern the reliability and security of the bulk power system.
A 69 kV substation typically includes power transformers, circuit breakers, disconnect switches, busbars, and protection relays, often compliant with IEEE and ANSI standards.