Overview
San Angelo Red Creek Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by American Electric Power. It handles voltages of 345 kV and 138 kV, serving the regional grid.
San Angelo Red Creek Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by American Electric Power, it is a key node in the regional transmission network, handling high-voltage electricity at 345 kV and 138 kV. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ensuring grid reliability and compliance with mandatory standards. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, it plays a role in transmitting power from generation sources to distribution networks, supporting the energy needs of the surrounding area. The facility's location in Texas, a state with significant energy demand and a mix of conventional and renewable generation, underscores its importance in maintaining grid stability. The substation's dual voltage levels allow it to interconnect with both high-voltage transmission lines and lower-voltage distribution systems, facilitating efficient power flow and reliability for local communities.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a semi-arid region of Texas, where electrical infrastructure must withstand hot summers and occasional severe weather. Its operation supports the integration of renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which are prevalent in the state, while maintaining grid stability. The facility's design and maintenance consider local environmental conditions to ensure reliable service.
Frequently asked questions
San Angelo Red Creek Substation is located in Texas, United States, near San Angelo. Its coordinates are approximately 31.5289° N, -100.3211° W.
The substation handles two voltage levels: 345 kV (kilovolts) and 138 kV, which are typical for high-voltage transmission and sub-transmission in the US grid.
The substation is owned and operated by American Electric Power (AEP), one of the largest electric utilities in the United States.
As part of the US electrical grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, which ensure the stability and security of the bulk power system.
Substations like this one step down high-voltage electricity from transmission lines to lower voltages for distribution, or interconnect different parts of the grid, enabling efficient power flow and reliability.