Overview
Park Center Substation is an operational electrical substation in Virginia, United States, owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company. It operates at 230 kV, serving the regional grid.
Park Center Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Virginia, United States. Owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company (a Dominion Energy subsidiary), it plays a key role in the state's transmission network. The facility operates at a voltage of 230 kV, classifying it as a high-voltage substation critical for bulk power transfer and grid stability. The substation falls under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. As part of the PJM Interconnection regional transmission organization, it adheres to mandatory grid reliability and security protocols. The 230 kV voltage level is typical for sub-transmission and transmission applications, linking generation sources to distribution networks. Located in a region with growing electricity demand, Park Center Substation supports the reliability of the local power grid. Its operational status ensures continued service to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The facility's integration into the broader Eastern Interconnection highlights its significance in maintaining system stability and enabling electricity flow across state lines.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a suburban area of Virginia, where land use is a mix of residential and commercial developments. Electrical infrastructure like Park Center Substation is designed to minimize environmental impact through proper siting and equipment shielding. The 230 kV operation involves electromagnetic fields, which are managed within regulatory limits. The facility's location away from sensitive ecosystems reduces potential ecological disruption, while its role in grid reliability supports efficient energy distribution.
Frequently asked questions
Park Center Substation is located in Virginia, United States, at coordinates 38.938540, -77.426059.
Park Center Substation operates at a voltage of 230 kV, which is a high-voltage level used for transmission and sub-transmission in the electrical grid.
Park Center Substation is owned and operated by Virginia Electric and Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. They also follow IEEE and ISO/IEC 61850 standards for automation and communication.
A 230 kV substation steps down transmission-level voltage for distribution or interconnects transmission lines, ensuring reliable power flow and grid stability.