Overview
Oconto Substation is an operational electrical substation in Wisconsin, United States, owned by American Transmission Company. It operates at 138 kV, playing a key role in regional grid stability.
Oconto Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Wisconsin, United States, owned and operated by American Transmission Company. As a 138 kV substation, it is part of the medium-voltage transmission network that supports electricity distribution across the region. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards for the U.S. bulk power system. The 138 kV voltage level is typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations, serving as a critical link between high-voltage transmission lines and local distribution networks. This facility contributes to the reliability of the regional grid by stepping down voltage for local consumption or interconnecting generation sources. Its location in Wisconsin places it within the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) footprint, which manages wholesale electricity markets and grid operations across the central United States.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Wisconsin, near the Oconto River. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential impacts on local wildlife, though modern substations are designed with mitigation measures. The surrounding landscape includes agricultural and forested areas, where infrastructure development must balance grid reliability with environmental stewardship.
Frequently asked questions
Oconto Substation is located in Wisconsin, United States, near the Oconto River. Its coordinates are approximately 44.902756 N, -87.885914 W.
Oconto Substation operates at 138 kV, which is a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
Oconto Substation is owned and operated by American Transmission Company (ATC), a transmission-only utility that owns and maintains high-voltage electric transmission lines in the Upper Midwest.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, Oconto Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. It also operates within the MISO market, which oversees grid reliability and wholesale electricity.
A 138 kV substation steps down transmission-level voltage for distribution to local networks or interconnects generation sources. It is critical for maintaining grid stability and delivering electricity to communities and industries.