Overview
Potterfield Substation, operated by Alpena Power Company in Alpena, Michigan, is an operational electrical substation handling voltages of 138 kV and 34.5 kV, serving the regional grid.
Potterfield Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Alpena, Michigan, United States. It is owned and operated by Alpena Power Company, a local utility serving the Alpena area. The substation handles dual voltage levels of 138,000 volts and 34,500 volts, indicating its role in stepping down transmission-level power for distribution. 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 bulk power system. As part of Michigan's grid, it likely adheres to standards set by the Midwest Reliability Organization (MRO) and the regional transmission organization (RTO) for the area. The 138 kV voltage level is typical for subtransmission or distribution substations, while 34.5 kV is common for local distribution. Potterfield Substation plays a critical role in maintaining grid stability and reliability for the Alpena community and surrounding areas. Its operation supports residential, commercial, and industrial electricity needs. The substation's location in a rural region of Michigan underscores its importance in delivering power to less densely populated areas, where infrastructure resilience is key.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in Alpena, Michigan, a region characterized by cold winters and proximity to Lake Huron. Electrical infrastructure in such areas must withstand harsh weather conditions, including ice storms and heavy snow, which can impact grid reliability. Its rural location may reduce exposure to urban-related risks but requires robust design for extreme weather events.
Frequently asked questions
Potterfield Substation is located in Alpena, Michigan, United States, at coordinates 45.073713, -83.484607.
Potterfield Substation handles two voltage levels: 138,000 volts (138 kV) and 34,500 volts (34.5 kV), typical for subtransmission and distribution.
Potterfield Substation is owned and operated by Alpena Power Company, a local utility serving the Alpena area.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, Potterfield Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, as well as regional requirements from the Midwest Reliability Organization.
Substations like Potterfield step down high-voltage transmission power to lower voltages for distribution to homes and businesses, ensuring grid stability and reliable electricity supply.