Refugio Substation - 69 kV Electrical Substation in Refugio, Texas

Refugio Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Refugio, Texas, United States. Owned and operated by South Texas Electric Cooperative, it plays a role in the regional electrical infrastructure of South Texas. The substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which is typical for distribution-level substations that step down power from transmission lines to local distribution networks. As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Refugio Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for transmission-level assets. The substation likely includes switchgear and transformers to manage voltage levels and ensure grid stability. South Texas Electric Cooperative is a member-owned utility that provides electricity to rural areas, and this substation supports its distribution network. The substation's location in Refugio, a small town in coastal Texas, places it in a region prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, which can pose risks to electrical infrastructure. Its role in the local grid is critical for maintaining power supply to residential, agricultural, and industrial customers in the area. The substation's operational status ensures continued reliability for the community it serves.

The substation is located in Refugio, Texas, a coastal area with a subtropical climate. The region is susceptible to extreme weather events such as hurricanes, which can damage overhead lines and substation equipment. The substation's design likely includes measures to withstand high winds and flooding, common in the Gulf Coast region. Its operation supports local energy needs while being subject to environmental regulations that minimize impacts on surrounding habitats.