Overview
UTSA Substation is an operational electrical substation in San Antonio, Texas, owned and operated by CPS Energy. It operates at 138 kV and 13.8 kV, serving the local grid.
UTSA Substation is an operational electrical substation located in San Antonio, Texas, United States. Owned and operated by CPS Energy, the facility plays a key role in the regional power distribution network, stepping down transmission voltage for local consumption. The substation operates at dual voltage levels of 138 kV and 13.8 kV, typical for a distribution substation that connects high-voltage transmission lines to lower-voltage distribution feeders. As part of CPS Energy's infrastructure, it is subject to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations for grid stability and security. Located near the University of Texas at San Antonio, the substation supports the growing energy demands of the area. Its operational status and integration into the wider Texas Interconnection grid underscore its importance in maintaining reliable electricity supply to residential, commercial, and institutional customers in the region.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in an urbanizing area of San Antonio, where land use transitions from natural scrubland to developed infrastructure. Its operation involves electromagnetic fields and potential oil leakage from transformers, but modern containment measures mitigate environmental impact. The facility's location near educational institutions and residential zones necessitates careful noise and visual integration.
Frequently asked questions
UTSA Substation is located in San Antonio, Texas, United States, near the University of Texas at San Antonio. Its coordinates are approximately 29.5865° N, 98.6259° W.
UTSA Substation operates at two voltage levels: 138 kV (transmission) and 13.8 kV (distribution), making it a step-down substation that connects the high-voltage grid to local distribution networks.
UTSA Substation is owned and operated by CPS Energy, the municipal electric utility serving San Antonio and Bexar County, Texas.
As part of the US power grid, UTSA Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interstate electricity transmission. CPS Energy also adheres to Texas state utility regulations.
Substations like UTSA are critical nodes in the electrical grid, transforming voltage levels for efficient transmission and distribution, and providing switching, protection, and monitoring capabilities to ensure reliable power delivery.