Overview
Waikoloa Substation is an operational electrical substation in Hawaii, owned and operated by Hawaiian Electric Company. It handles voltages of 69 kV and 12.47 kV, serving the Waikoloa area.
Waikoloa Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Waikoloa, Hawaii, United States. Owned and operated by Hawaiian Electric Company, the facility plays a key role in the local power distribution network, stepping down transmission-level voltage for residential and commercial use. The substation operates at two voltage levels: 69 kV for transmission and 12.47 kV for distribution, which is typical for a medium-scale substation serving a community. As part of the Hawaiian Electric grid, it adheres to NERC reliability standards and is subject to FERC regulation for interconnection and grid stability. The substation's design and equipment likely follow industry standards such as IEEE C37 for switchgear and ANSI for transformers. Located on the Big Island of Hawaii, the substation supports the island's isolated grid, which relies on a mix of renewable and fossil fuel generation. Its operational status ensures reliable electricity supply to the Waikoloa area, including resorts and residential communities. The facility's role in maintaining grid stability is critical, especially given Hawaii's goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a coastal dryland environment on the Big Island, an area prone to volcanic activity and seismic events. Its design must account for these geological risks, including potential lava flows and earthquakes. The facility's operation supports integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which are abundant in Hawaii, contributing to the state's clean energy transition.
Frequently asked questions
Waikoloa Substation is located in Waikoloa, on the Big Island of Hawaii, United States. Its coordinates are approximately 19.9206° N, -155.7839° W.
Waikoloa Substation operates at two voltage levels: 69 kV for transmission and 12.47 kV for distribution, which is typical for a substation serving a community.
Waikoloa Substation is owned and operated by Hawaiian Electric Company, the primary electric utility serving the Hawaiian Islands.
Substations in Hawaii, including Waikoloa Substation, must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for interconnection. They also follow IEEE and ANSI standards for equipment and safety.
Waikoloa Substation helps integrate renewable energy sources like solar and wind into the grid, supporting Hawaii's goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045. Its role in voltage regulation and grid stability is essential for managing variable renewable generation.