Overview
Starcke Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority. It operates at a voltage of 138 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Starcke Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), the facility plays a critical role in the state's power transmission network. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is a common transmission-level voltage in the United States, indicating its role in stepping down power from higher-voltage lines for distribution or interconnecting regional grids. The substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for the bulk power system. As part of the LCRA's transmission infrastructure, Starcke Substation is subject to NERC's Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards, ensuring cybersecurity and physical security measures. The facility's voltage level and ownership by a major river authority suggest it may support both urban and rural load centers in central Texas. As a substation, Starcke contributes to grid stability and reliability by enabling voltage regulation and power flow control. Its location in Texas, a state with a unique independent grid (ERCOT), underscores its importance in maintaining service continuity for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The substation's operational status and integration into LCRA's network highlight its role in supporting the region's energy needs.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region of central Texas characterized by a mix of rural and suburban development, with proximity to the Colorado River basin. The local environment includes limestone geology and oak-juniper woodlands, which can influence grounding and vegetation management practices. Substations of this voltage class typically require cleared rights-of-way to prevent fire hazards and maintain electrical clearance, which may impact local wildlife corridors. The facility's operation aligns with NERC standards for environmental compliance, including oil containment and stormwater management.
Frequently asked questions
Starcke Substation is located in Texas, United States, near coordinates 30.552281, -98.261362. It is owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority.
Starcke Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is a standard transmission-level voltage in the United States.
Starcke Substation is owned and operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), a public utility that provides water and power services in Texas.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, Starcke Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, including Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) requirements.
Starcke Substation serves as a node in the transmission network, stepping down voltage for distribution or interconnecting lines. It supports grid stability and reliability within the ERCOT region.