Overview
Spicewood Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, operated by Pedernales Electric Cooperative. It operates at 138 kV, serving the local grid.
Spicewood Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. It is owned and operated by Pedernales Electric Cooperative, a major electric utility in the region. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, classifying it as a medium-voltage facility within the transmission and distribution network. 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 Texas Interconnection, it is also subject to oversight by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which manages the state's power grid. The 138 kV voltage level is typical for subtransmission or distribution substations, serving to step down power from higher transmission voltages for local distribution. Spicewood Substation plays a key role in delivering electricity to the surrounding community, including residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Its location in the rapidly growing Austin metropolitan area underscores its importance in maintaining grid stability and supporting regional development. The facility's operational status ensures continued reliability for the local power supply.
Environmental context
The substation is located in the Texas Hill Country, a region characterized by limestone geology and oak-juniper woodlands. The area experiences hot summers and mild winters, with occasional drought conditions that can stress the local water supply. Electrical infrastructure in this region must be designed to withstand extreme weather events, including thunderstorms, hail, and occasional winter storms. The substation's design and maintenance practices are likely adapted to these conditions to ensure reliable operation.
Frequently asked questions
Spicewood Substation is located in Texas, United States, near the coordinates 30.420260, -97.796936. It is operated by Pedernales Electric Cooperative.
Spicewood Substation operates at 138 kV, which is a medium voltage level commonly used for subtransmission or distribution in the US electrical grid.
Spicewood Substation is owned and operated by Pedernales Electric Cooperative, a member-owned utility serving central Texas.
As part of the US electrical grid, Spicewood Substation is subject to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulation. It also operates within the ERCOT interconnection, which manages Texas's power grid.
A 138 kV substation typically steps down high-voltage transmission power to lower voltages for local distribution, serving residential, commercial, and industrial customers. It is a critical component of the electrical infrastructure.