Overview
Papalote Creek Wind Farm Substation is an operational substation in Texas, United States, owned by E.ON. It operates at 138 kV, supporting wind energy transmission.
Papalote Creek Wind Farm Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States, owned by E.ON. The facility operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for medium-to-high voltage transmission substations connecting wind farms to the grid. As part of the Papalote Creek Wind Farm, this substation plays a critical role in collecting and stepping up power from wind turbines for integration into the broader electrical network. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for transmission assets. In Texas, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) manages the grid, and this substation likely adheres to ERCOT's interconnection requirements. The 138 kV voltage level is common for regional transmission, balancing efficiency and cost for renewable energy projects. Environmentally, the substation supports the Papalote Creek Wind Farm, which contributes to renewable energy generation in the Coastal Bend region of Texas. The area's flat terrain and consistent winds make it suitable for wind power, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The substation's operation helps integrate clean energy into the grid, supporting state and national renewable energy targets.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of Texas, near the Gulf Coast, where wind resources are abundant. The surrounding landscape is primarily agricultural and grassland, with minimal urban development. The facility's role in transmitting wind power helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional fossil fuel plants. However, substations can have local environmental impacts such as electromagnetic fields and land use, though these are typically managed through siting and design standards.
Frequently asked questions
Papalote Creek Wind Farm Substation is located in Texas, United States, near the Gulf Coast. Its coordinates are approximately 27.9513 N, -97.4259 W.
The substation operates at 138 kV, which is a common voltage for transmission substations connecting wind farms to the grid.
The substation is owned by E.ON, a major energy company with operations in renewable energy and grid infrastructure.
As part of the US electrical grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. In Texas, it also follows ERCOT interconnection requirements.
A substation collects electricity from wind turbines, steps up the voltage for efficient transmission over long distances, and connects to the main power grid.