Overview
Sutherlin Substation is an operational electrical substation in Oregon, United States, owned and operated by PacifiCorp. It operates at 115 kV, serving the regional power grid.
Sutherlin Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Oregon, United States. Owned and operated by PacifiCorp, it is part of the company's transmission and distribution network in the Pacific Northwest. The substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level infrastructure in the region. As a 115 kV substation, Sutherlin Substation plays a role in stepping down power from higher-voltage transmission lines for local distribution. PacifiCorp, a major utility in the western U.S., operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must comply with North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. The substation's equipment likely includes circuit breakers, transformers, and switchgear that meet industry standards such as IEEE and IEC. The substation is situated in a rural area of Douglas County, Oregon, where it supports electricity delivery to local communities and industries. Its operational status ensures grid stability and reliability in the region. The facility contributes to the overall resilience of the Pacific Northwest power system, which integrates hydroelectric, wind, and other generation sources.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of Oregon, characterized by forested hills and agricultural land. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential oil containment from transformers, which are managed under environmental regulations. The site's proximity to natural habitats requires adherence to wildlife protection measures during maintenance and construction activities.
Frequently asked questions
Sutherlin Substation is located in Oregon, United States, near the city of Sutherlin in Douglas County. Its approximate coordinates are 43.390737 N, -123.300811 W.
Sutherlin Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
Sutherlin Substation is owned and operated by PacifiCorp, a major electric utility serving customers in the western United States.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets. Equipment often follows IEEE and IEC standards.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission lines (e.g., 230 kV or 500 kV) for distribution to local areas, ensuring reliable electricity supply to homes and businesses.