Overview
Southwest Substation is an operational electrical substation in Washington, D.C., owned by Potomac Electric Power Company. It plays a key role in the local power distribution grid.
Southwest Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Washington, D.C., United States. Owned by Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco), it serves as a critical node in the region's electrical infrastructure, stepping down transmission voltages for distribution to residential and commercial customers. As a substation in the U.S., it operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for transmission-level assets and adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. The facility likely employs standard substation automation protocols such as IEC 61850 for efficient monitoring and control. Given its urban location in the nation's capital, the substation is integral to maintaining grid stability for a dense population center. The environmental context of Southwest Substation is shaped by its urban setting in Washington, D.C., where it supports the electrical needs of government buildings, businesses, and residents. The substation's role in the grid is critical for ensuring reliable power supply in a city with high energy demand and stringent reliability requirements.
Environmental context
Located in an urban area of Washington, D.C., Southwest Substation operates within a densely populated environment with high electricity demand. The substation's voltage level and criticality to grid stability are paramount, as it serves a mix of government, commercial, and residential loads. Its urban location may necessitate advanced safety and noise mitigation measures, while its age and technology influence operational efficiency and environmental footprint.
Frequently asked questions
Southwest Substation is located in Washington, D.C., United States, at coordinates 38.883514, -77.014749.
Southwest Substation is owned by Potomac Electric Power Company (Pepco), a utility serving the Washington, D.C. area.
Southwest Substation is currently operational, actively contributing to the electrical grid in Washington, D.C.
In the United States, substations must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets, as well as local utility requirements.
Substations transform voltage levels for transmission and distribution, enabling efficient power transfer and ensuring grid stability and reliability.