Overview
Three Points Substation is an operational electrical substation in Arizona, United States, owned and operated by Southwest Transmission Cooperative. It operates at a voltage of 115 kV, serving the local grid.
Three Points Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Arizona, United States. Owned and operated by Southwest Transmission Cooperative, this facility plays a key role in the regional power distribution network. The substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level infrastructure in the United States. As a substation within the U.S. electrical grid, Three Points Substation is subject to reliability standards set by the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and regulatory oversight by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for transmission-level assets. The facility's voltage level places it in the medium-voltage range, commonly used for distributing power from transmission lines to local distribution networks. The substation likely includes switchgear, transformers, and protection systems compliant with industry standards such as IEEE C37. The substation's location in rural Arizona supports the electrical needs of the surrounding community and agricultural operations. Its operational status ensures continued grid stability and power delivery in the region. As part of the Southwest Transmission Cooperative's network, the facility contributes to the cooperative's mission of providing reliable electricity to member-owners.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a semi-arid region of Arizona, characterized by low rainfall and high solar insolation. The surrounding environment includes desert vegetation and agricultural land. Electrical infrastructure in such areas must be designed to withstand temperature extremes and dust, while minimizing fire risk. The substation's operation supports local energy needs without significant direct environmental impact, though its role in the grid facilitates integration of renewable energy sources common in the Southwest.
Frequently asked questions
Three Points Substation is located in Arizona, United States, near coordinates 32.094338, -111.285639. It serves the Three Points area and surrounding rural communities.
Three Points Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV (115,000 volts), which is a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
Three Points Substation is owned and operated by Southwest Transmission Cooperative, a utility cooperative that provides transmission services in the southwestern United States.
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission assets. Equipment often follows IEEE standards such as IEEE C37 for switchgear.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission levels (e.g., 230 kV or 500 kV) for distribution to local networks, or interconnects generation sources. It ensures reliable power delivery to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.