Overview
Swampscott Substation is an operational electrical substation in Swampscott, Massachusetts, owned and operated by National Grid. It handles voltages of 23 kV and 13.8 kV, serving the local grid.
Swampscott Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Swampscott, Massachusetts, United States. Owned and operated by National Grid, it is a key node in the regional power distribution network, stepping down transmission voltages for local distribution. The substation operates at voltage levels of 23 kV and 13.8 kV, typical for distribution substations that serve residential and commercial areas. As part of National Grid's infrastructure, it adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for interstate transmission aspects. Located in a coastal suburban community north of Boston, Swampscott Substation supports the electrical needs of the town and surrounding areas. Its role in maintaining grid stability is critical, especially during peak demand periods and extreme weather events common to the New England region.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a coastal suburban environment, where salt air and humidity can accelerate corrosion of electrical equipment. Proximity to residential areas necessitates careful management of electromagnetic fields and noise. The site's location also requires resilience against nor'easters and hurricanes, which can disrupt overhead lines and substation operations.
Frequently asked questions
Swampscott Substation is located in Swampscott, Massachusetts, United States, at coordinates 42.475336, -70.914222.
Swampscott Substation is owned and operated by National Grid, a major electricity and gas utility company serving the northeastern United States.
Swampscott Substation operates at voltage levels of 23 kV and 13.8 kV, which are typical for distribution substations that supply power to local communities.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, Swampscott Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets, ensuring grid stability and security.
Substations like Swampscott step down high-voltage transmission power to lower voltages for distribution to homes and businesses, and they also provide switching, protection, and monitoring functions to maintain grid reliability.