Overview
Missoula City Substation #1 is an operational substation owned by NorthWestern Energy in Missoula, Montana, operating at 100 kV to support regional grid stability.
Missoula City Substation #1 is a key electrical infrastructure facility located in Missoula, Montana, United States. Owned and operated by NorthWestern Energy, this substation plays a vital role in the local power distribution network, stepping down transmission-level voltage for urban and industrial consumers. The substation operates at 100 kV, a typical voltage for subtransmission and distribution substations in the United States. As part of the NorthWestern Energy grid, it adheres to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring stable and secure electricity supply. The facility's urban location in Missoula underscores its importance in meeting the city's growing energy demands. Environmental and operational significance includes its role in maintaining grid resilience for Missoula's residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. By facilitating voltage transformation and power routing, the substation supports community services and economic activities, while its integration into the broader Montana grid enhances regional energy security.
Environmental context
Located in Missoula, Montana, the substation operates in a region with a mix of urban development and natural landscapes. The facility's 100 kV voltage level indicates its role in distributing power from transmission lines to local networks, which is critical for grid stability in a city prone to seasonal weather extremes. Its urban setting means it supports dense residential and commercial loads, while proximity to natural areas requires careful management of electromagnetic fields and visual impact.
Frequently asked questions
Missoula City Substation #1 is located in Missoula, Montana, United States, at coordinates 46.868734, -113.994868.
The substation is owned and operated by NorthWestern Energy, a major utility serving Montana and surrounding regions.
The substation operates at 100 kV (100,000 volts), which is typical for subtransmission and distribution substations in the United States.
As part of the US electrical grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission and distribution assets.
A 100 kV substation steps down high-voltage transmission power to lower voltages for local distribution, ensuring reliable electricity supply to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the area.