Overview
Larimer River Station Substation is an operational electrical substation in Wyoming, United States, owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration. It operates at 345 kV and 230 kV voltage levels, serving as a key node in the regional tr
Larimer River Station Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Wyoming, United States, owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA). The facility operates at high voltage levels of 345 kV and 230 kV, indicating its role in bulk power transmission across the region. As part of WAPA's network, it supports the delivery of federal hydroelectric power to utilities and communities in the western United States. The substation's voltage levels place it within the high-voltage transmission category, critical for long-distance power transfer and grid stability. In the United States, such facilities are subject to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulation, ensuring operational security and compliance with mandatory grid codes. The substation likely employs modern switchgear and protection systems to manage power flows and maintain system reliability. Located in a rural area of Wyoming, the substation plays a vital role in connecting remote generation resources to load centers. Its operation supports the integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, which are prevalent in the region. The facility contributes to the resilience of the Western Interconnection, providing essential infrastructure for electricity delivery across state lines.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a semi-arid region of Wyoming, characterized by grasslands and agricultural land. Its high-voltage operation supports the transmission of electricity from distant power plants, including hydroelectric and renewable sources, to urban centers. The facility's location in a rural area minimizes direct environmental impact on densely populated zones, but its role in grid stability is crucial for enabling clean energy integration and reducing reliance on local fossil fuel generation.
Frequently asked questions
Larimer River Station Substation is located in Wyoming, United States, at coordinates 42.107457, -104.887570.
The substation operates at 345 kV and 230 kV, which are high-voltage levels used for bulk power transmission.
The substation is owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), a federal agency that markets and transmits hydroelectric power.
As part of the US transmission grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations to ensure grid stability and security.
The substation serves as a key node in the Western Interconnection, facilitating the transmission of electricity from generation sources to load centers across multiple states.