Overview
Poplar Substation is an operational electrical substation owned by DTE Energy in Michigan, United States, operating at 120 kV and 13.2 kV voltage levels.
Poplar Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Michigan, United States. Owned and operated by DTE Energy, the facility plays a key role in the regional power grid by stepping down transmission-level voltage for local distribution. The substation operates at dual voltage levels of 120,000 volts (120 kV) for transmission and 13,200 volts (13.2 kV) for distribution, indicating its function as a step-down substation serving both bulk power transfer and local load. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Poplar Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). DTE Energy, a major utility in Michigan, ensures compliance with reliability standards for grid stability. The substation's voltage levels suggest it is a medium-scale facility typical of suburban or urban distribution networks, supporting residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the surrounding area. The substation's location in Michigan places it within a region with diverse energy needs, including industrial manufacturing and urban centers. Its role in voltage transformation is critical for maintaining grid reliability and power quality. By stepping down high transmission voltages to distribution levels, Poplar Substation enables safe and efficient electricity delivery to end users, contributing to the overall resilience of the regional electrical grid.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a suburban area of Michigan, where the local environment includes mixed residential and commercial land use. Electrical infrastructure like Poplar Substation is typically designed with minimal direct environmental impact, though its operation supports the broader grid that powers homes and businesses. The facility's voltage levels and urban location mean it is subject to standard electromagnetic field (EMF) regulations and noise ordinances, with DTE Energy adhering to state and federal environmental guidelines for substation operations.
Frequently asked questions
Poplar Substation is located in Michigan, United States, at coordinates 42.376106, -83.743101. It is owned and operated by DTE Energy.
Poplar Substation operates at two voltage levels: 120,000 volts (120 kV) for transmission and 13,200 volts (13.2 kV) for distribution, indicating it is a step-down substation.
Poplar Substation is owned and operated by DTE Energy, a major electric utility serving Michigan.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Poplar Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets, ensuring grid stability and operational safety.
Substations like Poplar step down high transmission voltages to lower distribution voltages, enabling safe electricity delivery to homes and businesses. They also provide switching, protection, and monitoring functions critical for grid reliability.