Overview
Tacoma Substation is a high-voltage electrical substation operated by the Bonneville Power Administration in Tacoma, Washington, USA. It handles voltages of 500 kV, 230 kV, and 115 kV, serving as a critical node in the Pacific Northwest grid.
Tacoma Substation is a key electrical infrastructure facility located in Tacoma, Washington, United States. Operated by the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), a federal power marketing administration, this substation plays a vital role in transmitting electricity across the Pacific Northwest. With voltage levels of 500 kV, 230 kV, and 115 kV, it is classified as a large-scale substation, handling high-voltage transmission for regional grid stability. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for the bulk power system. BPA's facilities are subject to these standards, ensuring robust grid operations. The substation's technology includes modern switchgear and automation systems typical of high-voltage transmission assets in the United States. Environmentally, Tacoma Substation is situated in an urban area near the Port of Tacoma, supporting industrial and residential electricity demand. Its high-voltage capacity makes it critical for integrating renewable energy sources like hydropower from the Columbia River system. The facility's operational status ensures reliable power delivery to millions of consumers in the region.
Environmental context
Tacoma Substation is located in an urban-industrial area near the Port of Tacoma, where it supports local electricity demand and regional grid stability. The high-voltage infrastructure (500 kV) is essential for transmitting power from hydroelectric dams in the Columbia River basin, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. The substation's urban setting requires careful management of electromagnetic fields and noise, though no specific environmental designations are confirmed.
Frequently asked questions
Tacoma Substation is located in Tacoma, Washington, United States, near the Port of Tacoma.
Tacoma Substation handles voltages of 500 kV, 230 kV, and 115 kV, making it a high-voltage transmission substation.
Tacoma Substation is operated by the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), a federal agency that markets and transmits electricity from federal hydroelectric projects.
Tacoma Substation operates under NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, which govern the reliability and security of the U.S. bulk power system.
Tacoma Substation is critical for transmitting electricity from hydroelectric sources in the Pacific Northwest, supporting regional grid stability and integrating renewable energy.