Overview
Scottsboro Substation is an operational electrical substation in Alabama, United States, owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) with a voltage level of 161 kV.
Scottsboro Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Scottsboro, Alabama, United States. It is owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federally owned electric utility corporation. The substation operates at a voltage of 161 kV, placing it in the high-voltage transmission category, which is critical for regional grid stability and power distribution. The substation's 161 kV voltage level indicates it serves as a key node in TVA's transmission network, connecting generation sources to load centers. TVA's system is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards, ensuring grid security and operational resilience. Substations of this scale typically employ modern switchgear and automation systems compliant with standards like IEC 61850. As part of TVA's infrastructure, Scottsboro Substation supports the electric power needs of the Tennessee Valley region, contributing to reliable electricity supply for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Its location in northeastern Alabama positions it within a diverse energy mix that includes hydroelectric, nuclear, and natural gas generation, underscoring its role in maintaining grid balance and energy security.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region characterized by a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with proximity to the Tennessee River. Electrical infrastructure like this substation is designed to minimize environmental impact through careful siting and use of insulated equipment to reduce electromagnetic field exposure. The surrounding area's climate, with hot summers and mild winters, influences cooling and maintenance requirements for the substation's transformers and switchgear.
Frequently asked questions
Scottsboro Substation is located in Scottsboro, Alabama, United States, at coordinates 34.676420, -86.017402.
Scottsboro Substation is owned and operated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federally owned electric utility corporation serving the Tennessee Valley region.
Scottsboro Substation operates at a voltage of 161 kV, which is considered high voltage for transmission-level substations in the United States.
As part of the US electrical grid, Scottsboro Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and security.
A 161 kV substation serves as a critical node in the transmission network, stepping down voltage from higher levels for distribution or interconnecting generation sources to the grid, ensuring reliable power delivery to consumers.