Overview
Putnam Switching Station is an operational substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by American Electric Power. It handles voltages of 138 kV and 69 kV, supporting regional grid stability.
Putnam Switching Station is a substation located in Texas, United States, owned and operated by American Electric Power. The facility is operational and serves as a key node in the regional electrical grid, handling transmission voltages of 138 kV and 69 kV. As part of the American Electric Power network, it contributes to the reliability of electricity supply in the area. 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 facility's voltage levels indicate it functions at both sub-transmission and distribution scales, typical for switching stations that route power between higher-voltage transmission lines and local distribution networks. Environmental and operational significance lies in its role in grid stability and power distribution. Substations like Putnam Switching Station are critical for maintaining voltage control and enabling the safe transfer of electricity. Its location in Texas, a state with a large and growing energy demand, underscores its importance in supporting both urban and rural communities.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Texas, where the local environment includes grasslands and agricultural land. Electrical infrastructure in such settings must consider potential impacts on wildlife and land use, though substations typically have a small footprint. The facility's operation aligns with grid reliability standards that also address environmental compliance, such as those from NERC and FERC.
Frequently asked questions
Putnam Switching Station is located in Texas, United States, near coordinates 32.383691, -99.194032.
Putnam Switching Station is a substation that routes electrical power at voltages of 138 kV and 69 kV, helping to stabilize and distribute electricity within the American Electric Power grid.
Putnam Switching Station is owned and operated by American Electric Power, a major utility company in the United States.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, Putnam Switching Station must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, which ensure grid stability and security.
Putnam Switching Station handles two voltage levels: 138 kV and 69 kV, which are common for sub-transmission and distribution applications.