Overview
Paper City Substation is an operational electrical substation in Pennsylvania, United States, operated by West Penn Power. It operates at 138 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Paper City Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Pennsylvania, United States. Owned and operated by West Penn Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy, the facility plays a role in the regional transmission network. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is a common transmission-level voltage in the United States, indicating its function in stepping down power for distribution or interconnecting lines. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Paper City Substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. These standards ensure grid stability and security, including requirements for maintenance, cybersecurity, and emergency response. The facility's 138 kV voltage level places it within the transmission tier, critical for bulk power transfer across the region. The substation's location in rural Pennsylvania supports the local grid, providing reliable electricity to surrounding communities and industries. Its operational status ensures continued service, contributing to the resilience of the regional power system. The facility's age and specific equipment details are not publicly available, but typical substations of this scale are designed for long-term operation with periodic upgrades to meet evolving grid demands.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Pennsylvania, characterized by forested hills and agricultural land. Electrical infrastructure in such settings must consider wildlife interactions, particularly with birds and mammals that may be affected by power lines. The 138 kV voltage level poses minimal direct environmental impact compared to higher-voltage lines, but proper siting and maintenance are essential to avoid habitat disruption. The facility's operation is subject to environmental regulations under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for any upgrades or expansions.
Frequently asked questions
Paper City Substation is located in Pennsylvania, United States, near coordinates 41.486604, -78.676847. It is in a rural area and operated by West Penn Power.
Paper City Substation operates at 138 kV, which is a standard transmission-level voltage in the United States, used for bulk power transfer and distribution to local grids.
Paper City Substation is owned and operated by West Penn Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., which provides electricity to customers in Pennsylvania.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Paper City Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability, cybersecurity, and operational safety.
A 138 kV substation serves as a critical node in the transmission network, stepping down high-voltage power from long-distance lines to lower voltages for distribution, or interconnecting multiple lines to enhance grid reliability.