Overview
Port Matilda Substation is an operational electrical substation in Pennsylvania, United States, operating at 46 kV. It plays a role in regional power distribution and grid stability.
Port Matilda Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Port Matilda, Pennsylvania, United States. The facility operates at a voltage of 46 kV, which classifies it as a medium-voltage substation typically serving local distribution networks. As part of the U.S. electrical grid, it contributes to the reliable delivery of electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the region. 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 46 kV voltage level suggests it is a distribution substation that steps down power from higher transmission voltages for local use. Substations of this scale are common in rural and suburban areas across Pennsylvania. Port Matilda Substation's operational significance lies in its role within the local power grid, supporting energy reliability and resilience for the surrounding community. Its location in central Pennsylvania places it within a region with diverse energy sources, including natural gas, nuclear, and renewables. The substation helps integrate these resources and maintain stable electricity supply, which is critical for economic activity and daily life in the area.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of central Pennsylvania, characterized by mixed forest and agricultural land. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential impacts on local wildlife, though modern substations are designed to minimize ecological disruption. The 46 kV voltage level indicates lower environmental footprint compared to high-voltage transmission lines, with reduced land use and visual impact. The facility's age and maintenance practices influence its environmental performance, particularly regarding oil-filled equipment and potential leaks.
Frequently asked questions
Port Matilda Substation is located in Port Matilda, Pennsylvania, United States, at coordinates 40.798935, -78.046347.
Port Matilda Substation operates at a voltage of 46 kV, which is typical for a distribution substation serving local power needs.
Port Matilda Substation is currently operational, meaning it is actively used in the electrical grid to manage power distribution.
In the United States, substations like Port Matilda must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations to ensure grid stability and safety.
A 46 kV substation typically steps down higher transmission voltages for local distribution, supplying electricity to homes, businesses, and industries in the surrounding area.