Overview
Potato Lake Substation is an operational electrical substation in Minnesota, United States, operated by Itasca-Mantrap Electrical Cooperative Association. It operates at 115 kV, serving the local grid.
Potato Lake Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Minnesota, United States. It is owned and operated by Itasca-Mantrap Electrical Cooperative Association, a rural electric cooperative serving the region. The substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, classifying it as a medium-voltage facility within the transmission and distribution network. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes reliability standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and oversight by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for transmission-level assets. As a cooperative-owned facility, it is subject to state-level utility regulations and cooperative governance. The 115 kV voltage level is typical for sub-transmission or distribution substations that connect local distribution networks to higher-voltage transmission lines. Potato Lake Substation plays a key role in delivering electricity to rural communities in the Itasca-Mantrap service area. Its operational status ensures reliable power supply to residential, agricultural, and small commercial customers. The substation's location in a rural area highlights its importance in maintaining grid stability and supporting local economic activities.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of Minnesota, characterized by forests, lakes, and agricultural land. The local environment is sensitive to electromagnetic fields and habitat disruption, though substations typically have a small footprint. The 115 kV voltage level poses minimal environmental risk compared to higher-voltage transmission lines. The cooperative's operations are subject to environmental regulations regarding oil containment from transformers and wildlife protection.
Frequently asked questions
Potato Lake Substation is located in Minnesota, United States, at coordinates 47.015719, -95.108895.
Potato Lake Substation is owned and operated by Itasca-Mantrap Electrical Cooperative Association, a rural electric cooperative serving parts of Minnesota.
Potato Lake Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission or distribution substations.
In the United States, substations must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission assets. State utility commissions also oversee distribution-level facilities.
Substations transform voltage levels, switch circuits, and protect the grid. They connect transmission lines to distribution networks, ensuring reliable power delivery to end users.