Overview
Salt Draw Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by Texas-New Mexico Power. It operates at a voltage of 138 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Salt Draw Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by Texas-New Mexico Power, it plays a critical role in the regional transmission network, facilitating the distribution of electricity across the area. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level infrastructure in the United States. As part of the Texas Interconnection, it is subject to reliability standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for wholesale electricity markets. This facility contributes to grid stability and power delivery in the region, supporting both residential and industrial customers. Its location in Texas, a state with significant energy demand and a diverse generation mix, underscores its importance in maintaining reliable electrical service.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a semi-arid region of Texas, characterized by low precipitation and high evaporation rates. Electrical infrastructure in such areas must be designed to withstand temperature extremes and dust, which can affect equipment performance. The facility's role in the grid helps integrate renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which are prevalent in West Texas, contributing to the state's energy transition.
Frequently asked questions
Salt Draw Substation is located in Texas, United States, at coordinates 31.338146, -103.502938.
Salt Draw Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is a common voltage for sub-transmission and distribution in the United States.
Salt Draw Substation is owned and operated by Texas-New Mexico Power, a utility company serving parts of Texas and New Mexico.
In the United States, substations are subject to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets. These ensure grid stability and compliance with federal energy policies.
A 138 kV substation typically steps down transmission voltage for distribution to local networks, or interconnects generation sources. It is critical for maintaining voltage stability and reliable power delivery.