Overview
Paca Street Substation is an operational electrical substation in Baltimore, Maryland, owned and operated by Baltimore Gas and Electric. It operates at 115 kV, serving the local grid.
Paca Street Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Baltimore, Maryland, United States. Owned and operated by Baltimore Gas and Electric, it is a key node in the regional transmission network, stepping down high-voltage electricity for distribution to residential and commercial customers. The substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States. As part of the Baltimore Gas and Electric system, it adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and is subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight for transmission-level assets. The facility likely includes modern switchgear and protection systems to ensure grid stability. Located in an urban area, Paca Street Substation plays a critical role in maintaining reliable electricity supply to Baltimore's downtown and surrounding neighborhoods. Its operational status ensures continued support for the city's infrastructure, including commercial districts, hospitals, and residential areas. The substation's integration into the larger PJM Interconnection grid highlights its importance in regional power flow management.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in an urban environment in Baltimore, which presents specific environmental considerations such as electromagnetic field management and noise mitigation. Urban substations often incorporate compact designs and shielding to minimize visual and acoustic impact. The facility's age and technology level influence its efficiency and potential for upgrades to reduce energy losses.
Frequently asked questions
Paca Street Substation is located in Baltimore, Maryland, United States, at coordinates 39.297864, -76.621868.
Paca Street Substation operates at 115 kV, a standard voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the US.
Paca Street Substation is owned and operated by Baltimore Gas and Electric, a utility serving the Baltimore metropolitan area.
As part of the US electrical grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission assets.
Paca Street Substation steps down high-voltage electricity for distribution to local customers, ensuring reliable power supply in downtown Baltimore.