Overview
Pawtucket 1 Substation is an operational electrical substation in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, owned by Rhode Island Energy. It operates at 115 kV and 13.8 kV, serving the local grid.
Pawtucket 1 Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, United States. Owned and operated by Rhode Island Energy, the facility plays a key role in the regional power distribution network, stepping down transmission-level voltage for local consumption. The substation operates at two voltage levels: 115,000 volts (115 kV) for transmission and 13,800 volts (13.8 kV) for distribution. This dual-voltage configuration is typical for substations that connect high-voltage transmission lines to lower-voltage distribution networks serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers. As part of the Rhode Island Energy system, the substation adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and is subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight for transmission-level assets. Located in an urban area of Pawtucket, the substation supports grid stability for the surrounding community. Its operational status ensures continued electricity supply to local infrastructure, including homes, businesses, and critical facilities. The facility's integration into the broader New England power grid underscores its importance in maintaining reliable electrical service in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in an urban environment in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, where it supports dense residential and commercial areas. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential noise, typical of urban substations. Modern substations often incorporate SF6-free or low-emission equipment to reduce environmental impact. The surrounding area is part of the Narragansett Bay watershed, and any maintenance or construction activities would follow state and federal environmental regulations to protect local ecosystems.
Frequently asked questions
Pawtucket 1 Substation is located in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, United States, at coordinates 41.867382, -71.381617.
The substation operates at 115,000 volts (115 kV) for transmission and 13,800 volts (13.8 kV) for distribution.
Pawtucket 1 Substation is owned and operated by Rhode Island Energy, a utility serving customers in Rhode Island.
Substations in the US are subject to NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulation for transmission-level assets. Facilities also comply with local and state electrical codes.
Substations step down high-voltage transmission electricity to lower voltages for distribution to homes and businesses, ensuring safe and reliable power delivery.