Overview
Shallowater Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by South Plains Electric Cooperative. It operates at a voltage of 69 kV, serving the local grid.
Shallowater Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by South Plains Electric Cooperative, the facility plays a key role in the regional electrical infrastructure. With a voltage level of 69 kV, it is classified as a medium-voltage substation, typical for distribution and sub-transmission networks in rural and suburban areas. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards for the bulk power system. As part of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) interconnection, the facility adheres to regional grid reliability requirements. The 69 kV voltage level is common for local distribution, stepping down power from higher transmission voltages to serve communities and industries. Shallowater Substation supports the electrical needs of the surrounding area, contributing to grid stability and reliability. Its location in the South Plains region of Texas places it in an area with growing energy demand from agriculture, oil and gas, and residential sectors. The substation's operational status ensures continued service to the local community, underpinning economic activity and daily life.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in the South Plains region of Texas, a semi-arid area with hot summers and mild winters. The local environment is characterized by agricultural land and some oil and gas operations. Electrical infrastructure like this substation is critical for powering irrigation systems and industrial activities. The facility's voltage level and rural location suggest it is part of the distribution network, with potential environmental considerations related to land use and electromagnetic fields, though standard mitigation measures are typically in place.
Frequently asked questions
Shallowater Substation is located in Texas, United States, near the city of Shallowater. Its coordinates are approximately 33.6935° N, -101.9575° W.
Shallowater Substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which is typical for distribution and sub-transmission substations in the United States.
Shallowater Substation is owned and operated by South Plains Electric Cooperative, a member-owned utility serving the South Plains region of Texas.
As part of the US electrical grid, Shallowater Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. It operates within the ERCOT interconnection, which has additional regional reliability requirements.
A 69 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission levels (e.g., 138 kV or 230 kV) for distribution to local areas. It serves as a critical node for delivering electricity to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.