Overview
Lanham Substation is an operational electrical substation in Maryland, United States, owned and operated by Potomac Electric Power Company. It operates at 115 kV, serving the local grid.
Lanham Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Maryland, United States. Owned and operated by Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco), it is a key node in the regional transmission network. The substation operates at a voltage level of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations serving urban and suburban areas. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Lanham Substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for wholesale electricity markets and reliability standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC). The substation likely employs modern switchgear and protection systems to ensure grid stability and safety. Its location in the densely populated Washington, D.C. metropolitan area underscores its importance in maintaining reliable power supply to residential, commercial, and critical facilities. The substation plays a vital role in the local grid by stepping down voltage for distribution to end-users. Its operational status ensures continuity of service for the surrounding community. The facility is part of Pepco's broader network, which serves over 800,000 customers in Maryland and Washington, D.C., contributing to regional economic activity and quality of life.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a suburban area of Maryland, characterized by mixed residential and commercial land use. The local environment includes green spaces and waterways that may be sensitive to electromagnetic fields and stormwater runoff from the facility. Typical mitigation measures include proper grounding, shielding, and stormwater management practices to minimize ecological impact. The substation's operation aligns with local environmental regulations and grid reliability requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Lanham Substation is located in Maryland, United States, near the coordinates 38.947336, -76.874078. It is part of the Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco) network serving the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.
Lanham Substation operates at 115 kV (115,000 volts), which is a common voltage for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
Lanham Substation is owned and operated by Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco), a utility serving Maryland and Washington, D.C.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Lanham Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets. It also adheres to local state utility commission requirements.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down transmission voltage to distribution levels, serving as a critical link between high-voltage transmission lines and local distribution networks. It ensures reliable power delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.