Overview
Tech Drive Substation is an operational electrical substation in Virginia, United States, owned by Appalachian Power Company. It operates at 138 kV and 12.47 kV, serving the local grid.
Tech Drive Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Virginia, United States. Owned and operated by Appalachian Power Company, the facility plays a role in the regional transmission and distribution network, stepping down voltage from 138 kV to 12.47 kV for local distribution. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which set reliability standards for the bulk power system. As part of the Appalachian Power system, it contributes to grid stability in the region, which includes both urban and rural load centers. The facility's location in Virginia places it within a state with a diverse energy mix, including coal, natural gas, nuclear, and renewables. Substations like Tech Drive are critical for maintaining reliable electricity supply to residential, commercial, and industrial customers, supporting economic activity and community services.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region of Virginia that experiences a temperate climate with seasonal variations. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential minor impacts from maintenance activities, but modern substations are designed to minimize environmental footprint. The surrounding area includes mixed land uses, with proximity to residential and possibly commercial zones.
Frequently asked questions
Tech Drive Substation is located in Virginia, United States, at coordinates 37.122502, -80.384027.
Tech Drive Substation operates at 138 kV for transmission and 12.47 kV for distribution.
Tech Drive Substation is owned and operated by Appalachian Power Company.
As part of the US bulk power system, Tech Drive Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations.
Substations step down high-voltage electricity from transmission lines to lower voltages for safe distribution to homes and businesses.