Overview
O'Banion Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration. It operates at 230 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
O'Banion Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, managed by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA). As a 230 kV facility, it falls within the high-voltage transmission category, playing a critical role in bulk power transfer across the western United States. The substation is part of WAPA's extensive network, which delivers electricity from federal hydroelectric projects to utilities and communities. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ensuring compliance with reliability standards for transmission-level assets. With a voltage of 230 kV, it is typical for regional interconnections and supports grid stability in the area. The facility's location in California places it within a region with high electricity demand and a diverse energy mix, including renewable sources. Environmentally, the substation contributes to the efficient transmission of electricity, reducing line losses and supporting the integration of renewable energy. Its role in the grid helps maintain reliable power supply to residential, commercial, and industrial users. The facility's operational status and ownership by a federal power authority underscore its importance in the national energy infrastructure.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region of California with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The area supports agricultural activities and is near the Sacramento Valley, which has significant ecological value. The 230 kV transmission lines associated with the substation traverse diverse landscapes, requiring careful routing to minimize impacts on local habitats and wildlife corridors.
Frequently asked questions
O'Banion Substation is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 39.0239° N, -121.7231° W, in California.
O'Banion Substation operates at 230 kV (230,000 volts), which is a high-voltage transmission level used for long-distance power transfer.
O'Banion Substation is owned and operated by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), a federal power marketing administration.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, O'Banion Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission assets.
O'Banion Substation serves as a node in the transmission grid, stepping down voltage for distribution or interconnecting transmission lines to ensure reliable electricity delivery.