Overview
Ravalli Substation is an operational electrical substation in Montana, United States, operated by Mission Valley Power. It operates at 69 kV, serving the local grid.
Ravalli Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Montana, United States. Owned and operated by Mission Valley Power, the facility plays a key role in the regional electrical infrastructure, stepping down transmission voltage for local distribution. The substation operates at 69 kV, a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution substations in rural areas. As part of the US electrical grid, it adheres to NERC reliability standards and is subject to FERC regulation for interstate power transmission. The facility's equipment likely includes circuit breakers, transformers, and switchgear typical of medium-voltage substations. Located in a rural area of Montana, Ravalli Substation supports the electrical needs of the surrounding community, including residential, agricultural, and small commercial customers. Its operation is critical for maintaining grid stability and power quality in the region, particularly during extreme weather events common to the Northern Rockies.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural, mountainous region of Montana, where electrical infrastructure must withstand harsh winters and wildfire risks. The 69 kV voltage level indicates a medium-scale facility that balances local demand with environmental considerations, such as minimizing land use and electromagnetic field exposure. Its operation supports the integration of distributed energy resources, including hydropower from the Columbia River basin.
Frequently asked questions
Ravalli Substation is located in Montana, United States, near the town of Ravalli. Its coordinates are approximately 47.279548 N, -114.185342 W.
Ravalli Substation operates at 69 kV (69,000 volts), which is a common voltage for sub-transmission and distribution substations in rural areas.
Ravalli Substation is owned and operated by Mission Valley Power, a utility serving parts of Montana.
US substations must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interstate transmission. Equipment often follows IEEE and ANSI standards.
A 69 kV substation steps down transmission voltage for local distribution, serving residential, commercial, and agricultural customers. It also provides switching and protection for the grid.