Overview
Tercio Substation is an operational electrical substation in Colorado, United States, owned and operated by Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association. It operates at a voltage of 115 kV, serving regional grid stability.
Tercio Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Colorado, United States. Owned and operated by Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, the facility plays a key role in the regional transmission network. With a voltage of 115 kV, it is classified as a medium-voltage substation, typical for subtransmission and distribution support in rural and semi-urban areas. 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 bulk power systems. The 115 kV voltage level is common for connecting distribution networks to higher-voltage transmission lines, and the facility likely includes switchgear and transformers to manage power flow and voltage regulation. As part of Tri-State's transmission infrastructure, Tercio Substation supports the delivery of electricity to member cooperatives and communities in the region. Its operational status ensures continued grid reliability and power supply to local consumers, contributing to the overall stability of the Western Interconnection.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a rural area of Colorado, characterized by semi-arid climate and grassland ecosystems. Electrical infrastructure at this voltage level typically has a localized environmental footprint, with considerations for electromagnetic fields, noise from transformers, and potential impacts on avian species. The site's operation adheres to NERC environmental guidelines and local land-use regulations to minimize ecological disruption.
Frequently asked questions
Tercio Substation is located in Colorado, United States, at coordinates 37.135256, -104.834015. It is situated in a rural area and is part of the transmission network operated by Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association.
Tercio Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is a medium-voltage level commonly used for subtransmission and distribution purposes in the United States.
Tercio Substation is owned and operated by Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, a wholesale power supply cooperative serving member utilities in the Rocky Mountain region.
As part of the US bulk power system, Tercio Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. These standards cover grid reliability, cybersecurity, and maintenance practices for transmission assets.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission levels (e.g., 230 kV or 345 kV) for distribution to local networks, or steps up voltage from generation sources. It also provides switching and protection functions to ensure grid stability.