Overview
Sand Lake Substation is an operational electrical substation in Wisconsin, United States, owned and operated by Xcel Energy. It handles voltages of 69 kV and 12.47 kV, serving the local grid.
Sand Lake Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Wisconsin, United States. Owned and operated by Xcel Energy, the facility plays a role in the regional power distribution network. The substation operates at voltage levels of 69 kV and 12.47 kV, indicating it serves both transmission and distribution functions. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Sand Lake Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). These standards ensure grid reliability and security. The substation's voltage levels suggest it is a medium-scale facility typical of rural or suburban distribution systems. The substation's location in Wisconsin places it within the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) market, which coordinates regional grid operations. Its role in stepping down voltage for local distribution supports residential and commercial customers in the area. The facility contributes to grid stability and energy delivery in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of Wisconsin, characterized by forests and lakes. Electrical infrastructure in such settings typically has minimal direct environmental impact, though it supports the integration of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Standard practices include use of SF6-insulated equipment, which has a high global warming potential if leaked.
Frequently asked questions
Sand Lake Substation is located in Wisconsin, United States, at coordinates 45.870658, -91.511630.
Sand Lake Substation is owned and operated by Xcel Energy, a major utility company serving the Midwest and Western United States.
Sand Lake Substation handles voltages of 69 kV (transmission) and 12.47 kV (distribution), indicating it serves as a step-down substation.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Sand Lake Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, as well as MISO market rules.
Substations like Sand Lake transform voltage levels for efficient transmission and distribution, isolate faults, and help maintain grid stability and reliability.