Overview
Villa Cavazos Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by American Electric Power. It operates at a voltage of 138 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Villa Cavazos Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by American Electric Power, it is part of the high-voltage transmission network that supports the region's electricity supply. The substation operates at 138 kV, a common voltage level for sub-transmission and distribution, indicating its role in stepping down power from higher voltage lines for local distribution. As a facility under the jurisdiction of the United States, Villa Cavazos Substation adheres to the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and is subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulation for transmission-level assets. The substation likely employs modern automation and protection systems, such as those based on the IEC 61850 standard, to ensure grid stability and efficient power flow management. The substation plays a critical role in maintaining grid reliability in the region, particularly given the growing demand for electricity in Texas. Its location in a state with a diverse industrial mix and significant population centers underscores its importance in supporting economic activity and community services. The facility's operational status contributes to the resilience of the local electrical infrastructure.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a region characterized by a subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, which influences electricity demand patterns, particularly for cooling. The facility's location in a developed area means it is integrated into the urban landscape, with considerations for electromagnetic field management and noise mitigation. The surrounding environment includes both residential and commercial zones, necessitating careful planning to minimize visual and ecological impact.
Frequently asked questions
Villa Cavazos Substation is located in Texas, United States, at coordinates 26.021999 N, -97.597719 W.
Villa Cavazos Substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution substations.
The substation is owned and operated by American Electric Power (AEP), a major investor-owned electric utility in the United States.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, ensuring grid stability and security.
A 138 kV substation typically steps down transmission voltage for local distribution or interconnects sub-transmission lines, playing a key role in delivering electricity to communities and industries.