Overview
Signal Butte Substation is an operational electrical substation in Arizona, United States, owned and operated by Salt River Project. It operates at 69 kV, supporting regional grid stability.
Signal Butte Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Arizona, United States. Owned and operated by Salt River Project, the facility plays a key role in the regional power distribution network. With a voltage level of 69 kV, it is classified as a medium-voltage substation, typical for sub-transmission and distribution applications. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the United States, which includes NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC oversight for transmission-level assets. While 69 kV is below the typical threshold for NERC's bulk electric system (100 kV), it still contributes to local grid reliability and is subject to applicable state and regional reliability requirements. Salt River Project, a major utility in Arizona, manages a diverse portfolio of generation, transmission, and distribution assets. Signal Butte Substation serves the growing residential and commercial demand in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Its location in a rapidly developing region underscores its importance for maintaining reliable electricity supply. The substation's operational status and integration into Salt River Project's network ensure continued support for local communities and economic activities.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in the Sonoran Desert, characterized by arid climate and high summer temperatures. Electrical infrastructure in this region must be designed to withstand extreme heat, dust, and occasional monsoon storms. The facility's 69 kV voltage level is typical for sub-transmission lines that distribute power from larger transmission substations to local distribution networks, minimizing environmental footprint through efficient land use.
Frequently asked questions
Signal Butte Substation is located in Arizona, United States, near the Phoenix metropolitan area. Its coordinates are approximately 33.422750 N, -111.610471 W.
Signal Butte Substation operates at a voltage of 69 kV, which is a common medium-voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
Signal Butte Substation is owned and operated by Salt River Project, a major utility company serving the Phoenix area with electricity and water services.
Substations in the US are subject to NERC reliability standards for grid stability, FERC regulations for transmission assets, and state-level utility commission rules. While 69 kV substations may not be part of the bulk electric system, they still adhere to applicable reliability and safety standards.
A 69 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission levels (e.g., 115 kV or 230 kV) to distribution levels (e.g., 12 kV or 25 kV), serving local residential, commercial, and industrial customers. It is a critical node for reliable electricity delivery.