Overview
Millbury Substation No. 4 is an operational substation in Massachusetts, United States, owned and operated by National Grid. It operates at 115 kV, supporting regional grid stability.
Millbury Substation No. 4 is an electrical substation located in Millbury, Massachusetts, United States. Owned and operated by National Grid, the facility is part of the regional high-voltage transmission network, operating at 115 kV. This voltage level classifies it as a sub-transmission or distribution substation, serving local load centers and contributing to grid reliability in central Massachusetts. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). As a 115 kV facility, it likely employs standard air-insulated or gas-insulated switchgear, with protection and control systems adhering to IEEE and IEC standards. National Grid, as the owner and operator, ensures compliance with mandatory reliability standards and participates in regional planning through ISO New England. Environmentally, the substation is situated in a suburban area near residential and commercial zones. Its role is critical for distributing power from higher-voltage transmission lines to local distribution networks, supporting community energy needs. The facility's operational status and maintenance practices are key to minimizing outages and ensuring safe, reliable electricity supply in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a suburban setting in Millbury, Massachusetts, an area with mixed residential and light industrial land use. Its 115 kV operation places it in a medium-voltage class, typically associated with lower electromagnetic field exposure compared to higher-voltage lines. The facility's presence supports local grid stability and reduces transmission losses by stepping down power for distribution. Standard environmental mitigation measures, such as oil containment for transformers and noise barriers, are likely in place to minimize impact on nearby communities.
Frequently asked questions
Millbury Substation No. 4 is located in Millbury, Massachusetts, United States, at coordinates 42.191833, -71.744228.
Millbury Substation No. 4 is owned and operated by National Grid, a major utility company serving the northeastern United States.
Millbury Substation No. 4 operates at 115 kV, which is a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
As part of the US electrical grid, Millbury Substation No. 4 must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. It also follows IEEE and IEC standards for substation equipment and protection systems.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission levels (e.g., 230 kV or 345 kV) for distribution to local networks, serving industrial, commercial, and residential customers. It also provides switching and protection functions to maintain grid stability.