Overview
Point Prairie Substation is an operational electrical substation in Missouri, United States, owned and operated by Ameren. It operates at a voltage of 161 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Point Prairie Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Missouri, United States. Owned and operated by Ameren, a major utility in the region, the facility plays a critical role in the local transmission network. With a voltage level of 161 kV, it is classified as a high-voltage substation, typical of infrastructure that supports bulk power transfer and distribution to industrial and residential areas. 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 the U.S. grid. As part of the Ameren system, it adheres to mandatory compliance requirements for voltage regulation, protection systems, and cybersecurity. The 161 kV voltage class is common for subtransmission and transmission applications, bridging larger high-voltage lines with local distribution networks. Environmentally, the substation's location in rural Missouri minimizes direct impact on sensitive habitats, though its operation supports grid stability for surrounding communities. As part of the broader Ameren network, it contributes to the reliable delivery of electricity to homes and businesses, with modern switchgear and automation technologies likely in place to enhance safety and efficiency.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Missouri, where the surrounding landscape includes agricultural fields and scattered woodlands. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential noise from transformers, but modern design typically mitigates these impacts. The facility supports grid reliability for the region, reducing the need for local generation and associated emissions.
Frequently asked questions
Point Prairie Substation is located in Missouri, United States, at coordinates 38.869953, -90.896740. It is owned and operated by Ameren.
Point Prairie Substation operates at a voltage of 161 kV, which is a common subtransmission and transmission voltage level in the United States.
Point Prairie Substation is owned by Ameren, a major utility company serving Missouri and Illinois.
As part of the US electrical grid, Point Prairie Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, including requirements for voltage control, protection systems, and cybersecurity.
A 161 kV substation like Point Prairie serves as a node in the transmission network, stepping down voltage from higher levels for distribution or interconnecting transmission lines to ensure reliable power delivery.