Overview
Merrimac is an operational electrical substation in Wisconsin, United States, operating at 69 kV. It plays a role in regional power distribution and grid stability.
Merrimac is an operational electrical substation located in Wisconsin, United States. The facility operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which classifies it as a sub-transmission or distribution-level asset within the broader electrical infrastructure network. Substations of this voltage level are critical for stepping down power from higher transmission voltages to serve local distribution networks. In the United States, substations like Merrimac are subject to regulatory oversight by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for reliability and compliance. The facility's 69 kV voltage level places it within a common range for regional power distribution, supporting industrial, commercial, and residential loads in the surrounding area. The substation's location in Wisconsin, a state with a mix of urban and rural areas, suggests it serves a community with typical Midwestern energy demands. The facility's role in the local power network underscores its importance for maintaining stable electricity supply.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a temperate region of Wisconsin, where seasonal weather variations can impact grid operations. The 69 kV voltage level suggests it serves a mixed urban-rural area, with potential environmental considerations related to land use and proximity to residential zones. Substations of this scale typically have minimal direct environmental impact, but their role in enabling renewable energy integration and grid resilience is significant.
Frequently asked questions
The Merrimac substation is located in Wisconsin, United States, near coordinates 43.409867, -89.629972.
The Merrimac substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission or distribution-level power systems.
The Merrimac substation is currently operational, indicating it is actively contributing to the local power grid.
Substations in the United States are regulated by NERC reliability standards and FERC for transmission-level assets. For distribution-level assets, state public utility commissions also play a role.
A 69 kV substation serves as an intermediate point in the power grid, stepping down voltage from higher transmission lines to distribution networks, ensuring reliable electricity supply to local communities.