Overview
North Vernon Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, operated by Western Farmers Electric Cooperative. It operates at a voltage of 69 kV, serving as a key node in the regional power grid.
North Vernon Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, managed by Western Farmers Electric Cooperative. The facility operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which classifies it as a medium-voltage substation typically used for subtransmission and distribution within the electrical grid. Its location in a rural area of the United States suggests it plays a role in delivering power to agricultural and residential customers. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which enforces reliability standards for the bulk power system. As a cooperative-owned facility, it is subject to the oversight of the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) regional transmission organization, which coordinates grid operations and ensures compliance with NERC standards. The 69 kV voltage level indicates that this substation likely steps down power from higher transmission voltages for local distribution. As part of the Western Farmers Electric Cooperative network, North Vernon Substation contributes to the reliable electricity supply for member cooperatives in the region. Its operational status ensures continued support for local communities and industries. The substation's role in the grid underscores the importance of maintaining aging infrastructure and investing in modernization to enhance resilience against extreme weather events common in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of the United States, where the local environment is characterized by agricultural land and open plains. The facility's presence supports the electrical infrastructure needed for irrigation, farming operations, and rural communities. While substations have a relatively small environmental footprint, their operation involves the use of insulating oils and potential electromagnetic fields, which are managed under environmental regulations. The surrounding ecosystem benefits from reliable power for water pumping and other agricultural activities.
Frequently asked questions
North Vernon Substation is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 34.202830 N, -99.331213 W. It is operated by Western Farmers Electric Cooperative.
North Vernon Substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which is a common subtransmission voltage level used to distribute power from higher voltage transmission lines to local distribution networks.
North Vernon Substation is operated by Western Farmers Electric Cooperative, a generation and transmission cooperative serving member distribution cooperatives in Oklahoma and surrounding areas.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for the bulk power system. Facilities like North Vernon are also subject to FERC regulations and regional transmission organization requirements, such as those from the Southwest Power Pool.
A 69 kV substation typically serves as a subtransmission node, stepping down voltage from higher transmission levels (e.g., 138 kV or 230 kV) for distribution to local areas. It is critical for maintaining grid stability and delivering reliable power to end users.