Overview
Swenson Substation is an operational electrical substation in North Dakota, United States, owned and operated by McKenzie Electric Cooperative. It operates at a voltage of 115 kV, serving the local grid.
Swenson Substation is an operational electrical substation located in North Dakota, United States. Owned and operated by McKenzie Electric Cooperative, the facility plays a key role in the regional electrical infrastructure, stepping down transmission voltage for local distribution. The substation operates at 115 kV, a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution in rural cooperative networks. As part of the U.S. electrical grid, it adheres to NERC reliability standards and is subject to FERC regulation for interconnection and reliability. McKenzie Electric Cooperative, a member-owned utility, serves rural areas in northwestern North Dakota, ensuring stable power delivery to agricultural and residential customers. The substation's location in a rural area highlights its importance for grid stability in less densely populated regions. By transforming voltage for local distribution, Swenson Substation supports community energy needs and contributes to the resilience of the regional power system.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of North Dakota, characterized by agricultural land and open prairie. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential impacts on local wildlife, but modern substation design typically includes mitigation measures. The 115 kV voltage level indicates moderate environmental footprint compared to higher-voltage transmission lines.
Frequently asked questions
Swenson Substation is located in North Dakota, United States, at coordinates approximately 47.991561, -102.899311.
Swenson Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations in rural cooperative networks.
Swenson Substation is owned and operated by McKenzie Electric Cooperative, a member-owned utility serving rural areas in northwestern North Dakota.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interconnection and transmission service. Local cooperatives also follow state utility commission rules.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down transmission voltage to distribution levels, serving as a critical node for delivering electricity to residential, commercial, and agricultural customers in rural areas.