Lobelville Substation - 161 kV Electrical Substation in Tennessee, USA

Lobelville Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Tennessee, United States. It is owned and operated by Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative, a rural electric cooperative serving parts of western Tennessee. The substation operates at a voltage of 161 kV, placing it in the sub-transmission or transmission voltage class, which is typical for distributing power from higher-voltage transmission lines to local distribution networks. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards for the bulk power system. As a substation owned by a cooperative, it is subject to state-level utility regulations in Tennessee. The 161 kV voltage level indicates that this substation plays a role in stepping down power from high-voltage transmission lines to lower voltages for distribution to residential and commercial customers. Lobelville Substation contributes to the electrical infrastructure of rural Tennessee, supporting the reliability and stability of the local grid. As part of the Meriwether Lewis Electric Cooperative network, it serves communities in the region, ensuring access to electricity for homes, farms, and businesses. The substation's operational status and voltage level highlight its importance in maintaining grid resilience in a rural area.

The substation is located in a rural area of Tennessee, characterized by forested hills and agricultural land. The local environment includes the Tennessee River watershed, which supports diverse ecosystems. Electrical infrastructure in such settings must consider land use impacts, such as clearing for transmission corridors, and potential effects on wildlife. The 161 kV voltage level suggests moderate environmental footprint, with typical mitigation measures including vegetation management and erosion control.