Overview
Ontario Street Substation is an operational electrical substation in Chicago, Illinois, owned and operated by Commonwealth Edison. It operates at 138 kV, serving the local grid.
Ontario Street Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Owned and operated by Commonwealth Edison, a major utility in the region, the facility plays a key role in the local power distribution network. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level infrastructure in urban areas. As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Ontario Street Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). These bodies enforce reliability standards and oversee interstate electricity transmission. The substation likely incorporates modern automation and protection systems, such as those based on the IEC 61850 standard, to ensure grid stability and efficient power flow. The substation's urban location in Chicago means it serves a dense mix of residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Its role in stepping down voltage from higher transmission levels to distribution voltages is critical for maintaining reliable electricity supply to the city. The facility contributes to the overall resilience of the regional grid, supporting economic activity and community services.
Environmental context
Located in a densely urbanized area of Chicago, the Ontario Street Substation operates within a built environment where land use is dominated by infrastructure and development. The substation's presence supports the city's electrical needs without significant direct impact on natural habitats. However, its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential heat dissipation, which are managed through standard engineering practices. The surrounding area is characterized by impervious surfaces and limited green space, typical of urban electrical infrastructure.
Frequently asked questions
Ontario Street Substation is located in Chicago, Illinois, United States, at coordinates 41.893010, -87.630028.
Ontario Street Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is a common sub-transmission voltage level in the United States.
Ontario Street Substation is owned and operated by Commonwealth Edison, a major electric utility serving northern Illinois.
As part of the US electrical grid, Ontario Street Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission and distribution assets.
A 138 kV substation like Ontario Street Substation steps down transmission-level voltage to distribution levels, providing reliable power to urban residential, commercial, and industrial customers.