Overview
Recker Switching Station is an operational electrical substation in Florida, United States, owned and operated by TECO. It operates at 230 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Recker Switching Station is an operational electrical substation located in Florida, United States. Owned and operated by TECO, the facility plays a critical role in the regional power transmission network, handling high-voltage electricity at 230 kV. As a switching station, it facilitates the routing and control of electrical power without transforming voltage, ensuring grid stability and reliability. 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 230 kV voltage level places it in the high-voltage transmission category, typical for interconnecting major power plants and load centers. TECO, a major utility in Florida, manages this asset as part of its broader transmission infrastructure. Environmentally, the substation's location in central Florida near Winter Haven places it in a region with growing energy demand due to population growth and tourism. The facility supports grid resilience by enabling power flow management and contingency operations. Its role in the TECO network contributes to the reliable delivery of electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the area.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in central Florida, a region characterized by flat terrain, numerous lakes, and a humid subtropical climate. The area's rapid urbanization and agricultural activities increase electricity demand, particularly during hot summers when air conditioning loads peak. The 230 kV infrastructure helps integrate renewable energy sources like solar farms, which are expanding in Florida, while maintaining grid stability against weather-related disruptions such as hurricanes.
Frequently asked questions
Recker Switching Station is located in Florida, United States, near the city of Winter Haven. Its coordinates are approximately 28.05° N, -81.81° W.
Recker Switching Station operates at 230 kV (230,000 volts), which is a standard high-voltage transmission level in the US power grid.
The substation is owned and operated by TECO (Tampa Electric Company), a major utility serving the Tampa Bay area and central Florida.
As part of the US bulk power system, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and security.
A switching station routes and controls electrical power without transforming voltage. It allows grid operators to reconfigure transmission paths, isolate faults, and maintain reliable electricity delivery.