Overview
Virginia Smith Converter Station is an operational substation in the United States, operated by the Western Area Power Administration. It operates at 230 kV, supporting regional grid stability.
Virginia Smith Converter Station is a high-voltage substation located in the United States, operated by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA). The facility operates at 230 kV, placing it within the transmission-level infrastructure that is critical for bulk power transfer across the region. As part of WAPA's network, it serves a key role in delivering federal hydropower to utilities and communities. The substation's voltage level of 230 kV indicates its importance in the interconnected grid, facilitating long-distance power transmission. In the United States, such facilities are subject to NERC reliability standards and FERC regulation, ensuring operational security and compliance. The station's equipment likely includes modern switchgear and automation systems aligned with ISO/IEC 61850 standards for substation communication. Environmentally, the substation supports the integration of renewable energy sources, particularly hydropower from federal projects, contributing to reduced carbon emissions. Its location in a rural area minimizes direct environmental impact, while its role in grid stability enhances energy security for the surrounding region. The facility's operational status ensures continued service to the electrical infrastructure network.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a rural area of the United States, where its 230 kV voltage level supports long-distance power transmission with minimal local environmental footprint. The facility's role in integrating federal hydropower contributes to regional renewable energy goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Its operation aligns with NERC reliability standards, ensuring grid stability while supporting environmental sustainability.
Frequently asked questions
Virginia Smith Converter Station is located in the United States, with coordinates approximately 41.164210 N, -102.987627 W. It is operated by the Western Area Power Administration.
Virginia Smith Converter Station operates at 230 kV (230,000 volts), which is a typical transmission-level voltage for bulk power transfer in the United States.
The substation is operated by the Western Area Power Administration (WAPA), a federal agency that markets and transmits hydropower from U.S. Bureau of Reclamation dams.
As a transmission-level substation in the United States, Virginia Smith Converter Station must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations to ensure grid stability and security.
A converter station facilitates the conversion between AC and DC power, enabling efficient long-distance transmission and interconnection of different power systems. This substation likely supports HVDC or back-to-back conversion.