Overview
Mena Substation is an operational electrical substation in Mena, Arkansas, United States, owned and operated by Southwestern Electric Power Company. It handles multiple voltage levels including 138 kV, 69 kV, 34.5 kV, and 12.47 kV.
Mena Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Mena, Arkansas, United States. Owned and operated by Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), a subsidiary of American Electric Power, this facility plays a key role in the regional transmission and distribution grid. The substation serves as a node for multiple voltage levels, indicating its function in stepping down high-voltage transmission power for local distribution. The substation operates at voltage levels of 138 kV, 69 kV, 34.5 kV, and 12.47 kV, reflecting its role in both sub-transmission and distribution. As part of the SWEPCO network, it is subject to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations for transmission assets. The facility likely employs modern substation automation protocols such as IEC 61850 for control and monitoring, common in US utilities. Located in the Ouachita Mountains region, Mena Substation supports the electrical infrastructure of a rural community with a population of about 5,700. Its strategic position helps maintain grid stability in an area prone to severe weather, including ice storms and tornadoes. The substation's reliable operation is critical for local residences, businesses, and essential services in Polk County.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a forested, mountainous region of western Arkansas, where vegetation management and wildlife protection are key environmental considerations. The area experiences seasonal storms and ice events, requiring robust infrastructure to prevent outages. The facility's design likely includes measures to minimize fire risk and protect local ecosystems, such as bird-safe construction and oil containment systems.
Frequently asked questions
Mena Substation is located in Mena, Arkansas, United States, at coordinates 34.565872, -94.254726.
Mena Substation operates at voltage levels of 138 kV, 69 kV, 34.5 kV, and 12.47 kV, serving both sub-transmission and distribution functions.
Mena Substation is owned and operated by Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), a subsidiary of American Electric Power.
As part of the US electrical grid, Mena Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission assets, as well as state-level utility commission rules.
Substations like Mena transform voltage levels, switch circuits, and protect equipment to ensure reliable electricity delivery from transmission lines to local distribution networks.