Overview
Marana Substation is an operational electrical substation in Arizona, United States, owned by Southwest Transmission Cooperative. It operates at 115 kV, supporting regional grid stability.
Marana Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Arizona, United States, owned and operated by Southwest Transmission Cooperative. The facility operates at a voltage level of 115 kV, placing it within the sub-transmission or distribution voltage range typical for regional power distribution in the United States. As a substation in the U.S., Marana Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight for transmission-level assets. The facility likely plays a role in stepping down voltage from higher transmission lines to serve local distribution networks, contributing to grid reliability in the Marana area. The substation's location in Arizona places it in a region with growing energy demand due to population growth and industrial activity. Its operational status ensures continued support for local communities and businesses, while its ownership by a cooperative reflects a common model for rural electric infrastructure in the United States.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in the Sonoran Desert region of Arizona, characterized by arid climate and high solar insolation. Electrical infrastructure in this area must withstand extreme temperatures and dust, influencing maintenance and cooling requirements. The facility's 115 kV operation is typical for regional distribution, with minimal direct environmental footprint beyond land use and potential electromagnetic fields.
Frequently asked questions
Marana Substation is located in Arizona, United States, near the town of Marana. Its coordinates are approximately 32.446° N, -111.304° W.
Marana Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission or distribution-level substations in the United States.
Marana Substation is owned and operated by Southwest Transmission Cooperative, a utility cooperative that manages transmission infrastructure in the region.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission assets. Additionally, equipment may follow IEEE and ISO/IEC 61850 standards for automation.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission lines (e.g., 230 kV or 500 kV) for distribution to local networks, or steps up voltage from generation sources. It serves as a critical node for regional power flow and reliability.