Overview
Maple Valley Substation is a high-voltage electrical substation in Washington, United States, operated by the Bonneville Power Administration. It handles voltages of 500 kV, 345 kV, and 230 kV, serving as a critical node in the Pacific Northwest grid
Maple Valley Substation is a key electrical infrastructure facility located in Washington State, United States. Operated by the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), this substation handles multiple high-voltage levels including 500 kV, 345 kV, and 230 kV, making it a significant component of the regional transmission network. The facility is currently operational and plays a vital role in the stability and reliability of the Pacific Northwest power grid. As part of the BPA system, Maple Valley Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). These standards ensure the substation meets stringent reliability and security requirements. The substation's high voltage levels indicate its role in long-distance power transmission, connecting generation sources to load centers across the region. The environmental context of Maple Valley Substation is shaped by its location in the Pacific Northwest, a region known for its hydroelectric power generation and diverse ecosystems. The substation's operation supports the integration of renewable energy sources, such as hydropower and wind, into the grid. Its urban proximity to Seattle underscores its importance in maintaining reliable electricity supply to a major metropolitan area, while also necessitating careful management of electromagnetic fields and land use.
Environmental context
Maple Valley Substation is situated in the Pacific Northwest, a region characterized by abundant hydroelectric resources and a growing share of wind and solar energy. The substation's high-voltage infrastructure facilitates the transmission of renewable energy from remote generation sites to urban centers, supporting grid decarbonization. Its location near residential areas requires adherence to environmental standards for electromagnetic fields and noise, as well as land-use compatibility with surrounding ecosystems.
Frequently asked questions
Maple Valley Substation is located in Washington State, United States, near the city of Maple Valley. Its coordinates are approximately 47.468749 N, -122.187585 W.
Maple Valley Substation handles three voltage levels: 500 kV, 345 kV, and 230 kV. These high voltages are used for long-distance transmission of electricity across the Pacific Northwest.
Maple Valley Substation is operated by the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), a federal agency under the U.S. Department of Energy that manages the electric power transmission system in the Pacific Northwest.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, Maple Valley Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. These cover grid reliability, cybersecurity, and physical security.
Maple Valley Substation serves as a critical node in the Pacific Northwest transmission network, connecting high-voltage lines from hydroelectric dams and other generation sources to load centers. It helps ensure grid stability and reliable power supply.