Overview
Perryville Substation is an operational electrical substation in Perryville, Maryland, owned by Amtrak. It operates at 138 kV and 12 kV, supporting rail infrastructure in the northeastern United States.
Perryville Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Perryville, Maryland, United States. Owned by Amtrak, the facility plays a critical role in supplying power to the rail network, particularly along the Northeast Corridor. The substation handles voltages of 138 kV and 12 kV, indicating a medium-scale facility that steps down transmission-level power for local distribution. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards for the bulk power system. As part of Amtrak's infrastructure, it is subject to additional rail-specific safety and operational requirements. The dual voltage levels suggest the presence of transformers and switchgear typical of a transmission-to-distribution substation. As a key node in Amtrak's traction power system, Perryville Substation ensures reliable electricity supply for passenger and freight rail services. Its location in the Mid-Atlantic region, a densely populated area with high rail traffic, underscores its importance to regional transportation and grid stability. The facility's operational status contributes to the resilience of the broader electrical infrastructure serving the Northeast Corridor.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a temperate climate zone in the Mid-Atlantic region, which experiences seasonal weather variations including hot summers and cold winters. Its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and Susquehanna River means the area is subject to occasional flooding and storm events, which can impact infrastructure reliability. The facility's design likely incorporates measures to withstand such conditions, ensuring continuous power supply to critical rail operations.
Frequently asked questions
Perryville Substation is located in Perryville, Maryland, United States, near the northeastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay.
Perryville Substation operates at two voltage levels: 138 kV (transmission) and 12 kV (distribution), indicating it steps down power for local use.
Perryville Substation is owned by Amtrak, the national passenger railroad company, and is used to power rail infrastructure.
Substations in the United States are regulated by NERC reliability standards and FERC for transmission-level assets, ensuring grid stability and security.
Perryville Substation provides electrical power to Amtrak's rail lines, likely along the Northeast Corridor, enabling train operations and signaling systems.