Overview
Lafarge Substation is an operational electrical substation in Alpena, Michigan, owned and operated by Alpena Power Company. It operates at 138 kV and 13.8 kV, supporting regional grid stability.
Lafarge Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Alpena, Michigan, United States. Owned and operated by Alpena Power Company, it serves as a key node in the local electrical infrastructure, stepping down transmission voltage for distribution to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The substation operates at dual voltage levels: 138 kV for transmission and 13.8 kV for distribution. This configuration is typical for substations that connect high-voltage transmission lines to lower-voltage distribution networks. As part of the U.S. grid, the facility adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and is subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight for transmission-level assets. Located in Alpena, a city in northeastern Michigan, the substation supports the region's energy needs, including power for local industries such as cement manufacturing (LafargeHolcim plant nearby). Its role in voltage transformation and grid stability is critical for maintaining reliable electricity supply in the area.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in Alpena, Michigan, a region with a humid continental climate. Its operation involves minimal direct environmental impact, though the surrounding infrastructure supports local industry and residential areas. The dual-voltage design allows efficient power distribution, reducing transmission losses. Typical substations in this region undergo regular maintenance to ensure reliability and safety.
Frequently asked questions
Lafarge Substation is located in Alpena, Michigan, United States, at coordinates 45.072478, -83.411711.
Lafarge Substation is owned and operated by Alpena Power Company, a utility serving the Alpena area.
Lafarge Substation operates at 138 kV for transmission and 13.8 kV for distribution, stepping down high-voltage power for local use.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission assets.
Substations like Lafarge transform voltage levels, switch circuits, and ensure reliable power distribution from transmission lines to local distribution networks.