Overview
Suffolk Substation is a 500 kV electrical substation in Suffolk, Virginia, operated by Virginia Electric & Power Company. It plays a critical role in the regional transmission grid.
Suffolk Substation is a high-voltage electrical substation located in Suffolk, Virginia, United States. Operated by Virginia Electric & Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy, this facility operates at 500 kV, placing it in the large-scale transmission category critical for bulk power transfer and grid stability. The substation's 500 kV voltage level indicates its role in the high-voltage transmission network, which is subject to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulation. Such facilities typically employ advanced switchgear and automation systems compliant with IEC 61850 standards to ensure safe and efficient operation. As a key node in the Virginia transmission system, Suffolk Substation supports the integration of diverse generation sources and serves the growing energy demands of the Hampton Roads region. Its strategic location near major load centers enhances grid resilience and facilitates power delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a mixed urban-rural area of southeastern Virginia, characterized by flat coastal plains and proximity to the Great Dismal Swamp. High-voltage transmission lines associated with the facility traverse forested and agricultural lands, requiring vegetation management to maintain clearance. The region's humid subtropical climate poses challenges for equipment insulation and cooling, while storm events necessitate robust infrastructure to ensure grid reliability.
Frequently asked questions
Suffolk Substation is located in Suffolk, Virginia, United States, at coordinates 36.710426, -76.580374.
Suffolk Substation operates at 500 kV, which is a high-voltage transmission level used for long-distance bulk power transfer.
Suffolk Substation is operated by Virginia Electric & Power Company, a subsidiary of Dominion Energy.
As part of the US transmission grid, Suffolk Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, including requirements for voltage control, protection systems, and cybersecurity.
A 500 kV substation serves as a critical node in the high-voltage transmission network, stepping down voltage for regional distribution or interconnecting major power plants and load centers to ensure grid stability.