Overview
Pinal Central Substation is an operational electrical substation in Arizona, United States, owned and operated by Salt River Project. It handles voltages of 500 kV and 230 kV, serving the regional grid.
Pinal Central Substation is a key electrical infrastructure facility located in Arizona, United States. Owned and operated by Salt River Project, the substation is operational and plays a critical role in the regional power transmission network. With voltage levels of 500 kV and 230 kV, it is classified as a high-voltage substation, essential for long-distance power transmission and grid stability. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes NERC reliability standards and FERC oversight for transmission-level assets. As part of the Salt River Project system, it supports the integration of diverse generation sources and ensures reliable electricity delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in central Arizona. The facility's voltage levels indicate its importance in the bulk power system. Pinal Central Substation contributes to the environmental and operational efficiency of the regional grid by enabling the transmission of power from generating stations to load centers. Its location in Arizona, a state with growing energy demand and significant solar generation, underscores its role in supporting renewable energy integration and grid resilience. The substation's high-voltage capacity helps reduce transmission losses and enhances the overall reliability of the electrical infrastructure.
Environmental context
Located in the arid climate of central Arizona, Pinal Central Substation operates in an environment where water conservation and heat management are critical. The substation's high-voltage equipment is designed to withstand extreme temperatures, and its role in the grid supports the integration of solar power, which is abundant in the region. The facility's location away from densely populated areas reduces potential environmental impacts, while its contribution to grid stability aids in reducing reliance on fossil fuel peaker plants.
Frequently asked questions
Pinal Central Substation is located in Arizona, United States, at coordinates 32.870311, -111.561871. It is owned and operated by Salt River Project.
Pinal Central Substation handles voltages of 500 kV and 230 kV, making it a high-voltage substation critical for long-distance power transmission and grid stability.
Pinal Central Substation is owned and operated by Salt River Project, a major utility in Arizona that provides water and power services.
Substations in the US must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets. ISO/IEC 61850 standards may also apply for substation automation.
By transmitting power from generating stations to load centers, Pinal Central Substation facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources like solar power, which is abundant in Arizona, helping to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.