Overview
Sweetwater Wind 4 Substation is an operational substation in Texas, United States, owned by Leeward Renewable Energy. It operates at 345 kV, supporting wind energy transmission.
Sweetwater Wind 4 Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned by Leeward Renewable Energy, it plays a key role in collecting and transmitting power from wind farms in the region. The substation operates at a voltage of 345 kV, classifying it as a high-voltage transmission facility. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ensuring grid reliability and compliance with mandatory standards. As part of the Texas Interconnection, it adheres to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) protocols, which manage the state's independent grid. The 345 kV voltage level is typical for bulk power transmission, connecting generation sources to load centers. Environmentally, the substation supports renewable energy integration by connecting wind power to the grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Its location in West Texas, a region with high wind potential, underscores its role in clean energy infrastructure. The facility contributes to grid stability and energy diversification, serving as a critical node in the regional power network.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in West Texas, a semi-arid region with significant wind energy resources. Its operation facilitates the transmission of renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional power plants. The facility's high-voltage design minimizes transmission losses, enhancing overall grid efficiency. Local wildlife and land use are managed through standard environmental mitigation practices typical for energy infrastructure in the area.
Frequently asked questions
Sweetwater Wind 4 Substation is located in Texas, United States, near the city of Sweetwater. Its coordinates are approximately 32.2859° N, -100.4952° W.
The substation operates at 345 kV, which is a high-voltage transmission level commonly used for bulk power transfer in the United States.
The substation is owned by Leeward Renewable Energy, a company that develops and operates renewable energy projects, primarily wind and solar.
Substations in the US must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interstate transmission. Additionally, facilities in Texas follow ERCOT protocols.
The substation collects power from wind farms and steps it up to transmission voltage for delivery to the grid, enabling the integration of clean energy into the power system.