Overview
Richfield Substation is an operational electrical substation in North Carolina, United States, owned and operated by Duke Energy. It handles voltages of 100 kV and 12.47 kV, serving the local grid.
Richfield Substation is an operational electrical substation located in North Carolina, United States. Owned and operated by Duke Energy, a major utility in the region, the facility plays a key role in the local power distribution network. The substation operates at two voltage levels: 100,000 volts (100 kV) for transmission and 12,470 volts (12.47 kV) for distribution, indicating its function as a step-down substation connecting high-voltage transmission lines to lower-voltage distribution circuits. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Richfield Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). These bodies enforce reliability standards for the bulk power system, ensuring grid stability and security. The substation likely incorporates modern automation and protection systems, such as those based on the IEC 61850 standard, to enhance operational efficiency and safety. The substation serves the Richfield area and surrounding communities in North Carolina, contributing to the reliability of electricity supply for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Its strategic location and dual-voltage capability make it a critical node in Duke Energy's regional grid, supporting load growth and integration of distributed energy resources. The facility's operational status ensures continued service to the local population and economy.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of North Carolina, where the surrounding environment includes agricultural land and scattered residential developments. Electrical infrastructure like this can have localized environmental impacts, such as electromagnetic fields and visual intrusion, but modern design typically mitigates these effects. The facility's operation supports the regional grid, enabling the integration of renewable energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Frequently asked questions
Richfield Substation is located in North Carolina, United States, near the town of Richfield. Its approximate coordinates are 35.467189 N, -80.287343 W.
Richfield Substation is an electrical substation that steps down high-voltage transmission power (100 kV) to lower distribution voltage (12.47 kV) for local use. It is owned and operated by Duke Energy.
Richfield Substation is operated by Duke Energy, one of the largest electric power holding companies in the United States.
In the United States, substations are regulated by NERC reliability standards and FERC for transmission-level assets. Local distribution substations also comply with state utility commission rules.
Richfield Substation handles two voltage levels: 100,000 volts (100 kV) for transmission and 12,470 volts (12.47 kV) for distribution.