Overview
Marshalltown North Substation is an operational electrical substation in Marshalltown, Iowa, owned and operated by Alliant Energy. It operates at 69 kV, serving the local grid.
Marshalltown North Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Marshalltown, Iowa, United States. Owned and operated by Alliant Energy, the facility operates at a voltage of 69 kV, classifying it as a sub-transmission or distribution-level substation. It plays a key role in stepping down power for local distribution to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the Marshalltown area. The substation's 69 kV voltage level is typical for regional distribution networks in the United States, connecting higher-voltage transmission lines to lower-voltage distribution feeders. As part of Alliant Energy's infrastructure, it operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for wholesale electricity markets and the Iowa Utilities Board for retail service. The facility adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards to ensure grid stability and safety. Marshalltown North Substation supports the electrical needs of the Marshalltown community, contributing to grid reliability and resilience. Its location in a mixed urban-rural area underscores its importance in maintaining power supply for local businesses, schools, and households. The substation's operational status and integration into Alliant Energy's network highlight its role in the broader Midwestern electrical infrastructure.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in Marshalltown, Iowa, a region with a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Electrical infrastructure in this area must withstand temperature extremes and occasional severe weather, including thunderstorms and winter storms. The 69 kV voltage level indicates a moderate scale of operation, with environmental considerations focused on electromagnetic field management, oil containment for transformers, and vegetation management to prevent outages. The substation's urban-rural interface also requires careful land use planning to minimize visual and noise impacts on nearby residents.
Frequently asked questions
Marshalltown North Substation is located in Marshalltown, Iowa, United States, at coordinates 42.056907, -92.901278.
The substation is owned and operated by Alliant Energy, a major utility serving the Midwest.
The substation operates at 69 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level electrical infrastructure.
As part of the U.S. grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for wholesale electricity markets.
A 69 kV substation steps down higher transmission voltages for local distribution, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers.