Overview
North Shenandoah Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, handling voltages of 138 kV and 115 kV to support grid stability.
North Shenandoah Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, near coordinates 38.53°N, 78.62°W. It operates at voltage levels of 138 kV and 115 kV, indicating a transmission-class facility that plays a role in regional power distribution and grid interconnection. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for bulk power systems. As a substation with multiple voltage levels, it likely includes transformers and switchgear to manage power flow between transmission and sub-transmission networks. Typical equipment includes circuit breakers, disconnectors, and protection relays compliant with standards like IEEE C37. This facility contributes to the electrical infrastructure of the Shenandoah Valley region, supporting local communities and industries. Its operational status ensures continued reliability for the surrounding grid, which is critical for maintaining power quality and preventing outages. The substation's location in a rural area may also serve agricultural and residential loads.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of Virginia, near the Shenandoah National Park. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential oil leakage from transformers, which are managed through environmental compliance programs. The surrounding ecosystem includes forests and waterways, requiring careful siting to minimize ecological impact. Vegetation management around transmission lines is necessary to prevent fire risks and maintain reliability.
Frequently asked questions
North Shenandoah Substation is located in the United States, near coordinates 38.526931°N, -78.620313°W, in the Shenandoah Valley region of Virginia.
The substation operates at 138 kV and 115 kV, which are typical transmission-level voltages for regional power distribution in the United States.
North Shenandoah Substation is currently operational, meaning it is actively used for electrical power transmission and distribution.
US substations must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, including requirements for maintenance, protection systems, and cybersecurity under CIP standards.
Substations transform voltage levels, switch circuits, and protect the grid. They are critical nodes that connect generation, transmission, and distribution systems to ensure reliable electricity supply.