Overview
Pierremont Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, owned by Southwestern Electric Power Company. It handles multiple voltage levels including 138 kV, 34.5 kV, and 12.5 kV.
Pierremont Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, owned and operated by Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), a subsidiary of American Electric Power. The substation serves as a critical node in the regional transmission and distribution grid, stepping down high-voltage electricity for local distribution. The substation operates at multiple voltage levels: 138 kV (transmission), 34.5 kV (sub-transmission), and 12.5 kV (distribution). This configuration is typical for a medium-to-large substation that interconnects bulk power transmission with local distribution networks. As part of SWEPCO's system, it falls under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for wholesale electricity markets and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards to ensure grid stability. Located in the southern United States, the substation supports the electrical infrastructure of the region, which experiences high summer demand due to air conditioning loads. Its role in voltage transformation and grid reliability is essential for serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The facility contributes to the resilience of the local power grid by providing switching and transformation capabilities.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region with a humid subtropical climate, where seasonal storms and high temperatures can stress electrical infrastructure. The presence of multiple voltage levels indicates a complex interconnection point that must manage power flows efficiently to minimize line losses. Urban or suburban surroundings may require careful siting to balance land use and electromagnetic field considerations, though specific environmental impacts are managed through standard utility practices.
Frequently asked questions
Pierremont Substation is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 32.4556 N, -93.7080 W. It is owned and operated by Southwestern Electric Power Company.
Pierremont Substation operates at three voltage levels: 138 kV (transmission), 34.5 kV (sub-transmission), and 12.5 kV (distribution). This allows it to interconnect high-voltage transmission lines with local distribution networks.
Pierremont Substation is owned by Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO), a utility that serves parts of Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas. SWEPCO is a subsidiary of American Electric Power.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for wholesale electricity markets. Additionally, ISO/IEC 61850 standards for substation automation may apply to modern equipment.
Substations transform voltage levels, switch circuits, and route power to ensure reliable electricity delivery. They are critical nodes that connect generation, transmission, and distribution systems, helping to balance load and maintain grid stability.