Overview
Plains Interconnection is an operational substation in the United States, handling voltages of 115 kV and 69 kV. It plays a role in regional grid stability and power distribution.
Plains Interconnection is an operational substation located in the United States, with coordinates 33.167967, -102.802198. The facility operates at voltage levels of 115 kV and 69 kV, indicating its role in both transmission and sub-transmission networks. As a substation, it is a critical node for voltage transformation and power routing within the electrical grid. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for bulk power systems. The dual voltage levels suggest the facility connects high-voltage transmission lines to lower-voltage distribution networks, typical of substations serving regional load centers. The specific location in the Plains region of the United States aligns with the area's extensive wind energy resources and agricultural load. Environmentally, the substation's operation supports the integration of renewable energy sources, such as wind farms common in the Plains, by providing grid interconnection points. Its rural location reduces direct environmental impact on urban populations, but the facility must comply with NERC standards for vegetation management and wildlife protection. Typical substations in this region use gas-insulated switchgear or air-insulated designs to ensure reliability under variable weather conditions.
Environmental context
The Plains Interconnection substation is situated in a rural area of the United States, where the surrounding landscape is primarily agricultural and open plains. This location minimizes direct environmental impact on densely populated areas but requires careful management of vegetation and wildlife interactions to comply with NERC reliability standards. The substation's role in connecting wind energy resources to the grid supports regional renewable energy goals, contributing to reduced greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuel-based generation.
Frequently asked questions
Plains Interconnection is located in the United States at coordinates 33.167967, -102.802198, in a rural area of the Plains region.
Plains Interconnection operates at 115 kV and 69 kV, serving as a substation that connects high-voltage transmission lines to lower-voltage distribution networks.
Plains Interconnection is currently operational, functioning as an active substation in the US electrical grid.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and security.
As a substation, Plains Interconnection facilitates voltage transformation and power routing, supporting regional grid stability and integration of renewable energy sources like wind power.