Overview
Ridgewind Interconnect Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, operating at 34.5 kV. It serves as a grid interconnection point for regional power distribution.
Ridgewind Interconnect Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, with coordinates 44.018958, -96.065389. It operates at a voltage of 34.5 kV, classifying it as a medium-voltage substation typical for distribution-level interconnection and local grid support. 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 transmission and distribution assets. As a substation, it likely incorporates equipment compliant with IEEE and IEC standards, including switchgear and protection systems designed for safe and reliable power flow. This facility plays a key role in the regional electrical infrastructure by interconnecting generation or transmission lines to the distribution grid. Its location in a rural area of the United States suggests it supports agricultural or small community power needs, contributing to grid stability and energy access in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of the United States, where electrical infrastructure supports agricultural operations and small communities. The 34.5 kV voltage level indicates a distribution-scale facility, which typically has a localized environmental footprint. Substations of this type are designed to minimize electromagnetic field exposure and are often equipped with oil containment systems to prevent soil contamination. The surrounding landscape may include farmland or prairie, requiring careful siting to avoid disruption to local ecosystems.
Frequently asked questions
Ridgewind Interconnect Substation is located in the United States at coordinates 44.018958, -96.065389, in a rural area likely within the state of Minnesota or South Dakota.
Ridgewind Interconnect Substation operates at 34.5 kV, which is a medium-voltage level commonly used for distribution and interconnection purposes.
Electrical substations in the United States are regulated by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) for reliability standards and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for interstate transmission.
An interconnect substation connects different parts of the electrical grid, such as transmission lines, distribution lines, or generation sources, enabling power flow and grid stability.
US substations must comply with NERC reliability standards, IEEE safety guidelines, and OSHA regulations, including requirements for grounding, equipment protection, and fire safety.