Overview
Terrell Substation is an operational electrical substation owned and operated by Oncor in Texas, United States. It operates at a voltage of 138 kV, serving as a key node in the regional power grid.
Terrell Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by Oncor, a major transmission and distribution utility in the state, the facility plays a critical role in the local electrical infrastructure. With a voltage level of 138 kV, it is classified as a high-voltage substation, typically serving as a distribution or sub-transmission node within the broader grid. The substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC), which enforce reliability standards for the bulk power system. Oncor, as a transmission service provider, adheres to NERC's Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards and Texas's regional grid requirements managed by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT). The 138 kV voltage level is common for sub-transmission networks, connecting larger transmission lines to distribution systems. As part of the ERCOT interconnection, Terrell Substation contributes to grid stability and reliability for the surrounding communities. Its operational status ensures continued power delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in the region. The facility's location in rural Texas underscores its role in extending grid reach to less densely populated areas, supporting economic activity and quality of life.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of Texas, where the local environment is characterized by open grasslands and agricultural land. Electrical infrastructure like this substation can have localized environmental impacts, including electromagnetic fields and potential effects on wildlife, particularly birds. However, modern substations are designed with mitigation measures such as bird-safe structures and proper grounding to minimize ecological disruption. The facility's operation aligns with state and federal environmental regulations, including the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) for any new construction or upgrades.
Frequently asked questions
Terrell Substation is located in Texas, United States, near the city of Terrell. Its coordinates are approximately 32.7715° N, -96.2805° W.
Terrell Substation is owned and operated by Oncor, a major electric transmission and distribution utility serving Texas.
Terrell Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is a common sub-transmission voltage level in the United States.
As part of the U.S. bulk power system, Terrell Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. Additionally, it operates within the ERCOT grid, which has its own regional reliability requirements.
A 138 kV substation typically serves as a sub-transmission node, stepping down voltage from higher transmission lines (e.g., 345 kV) to distribution levels (e.g., 69 kV or lower) for local power delivery.