Overview
Wakefield Junction Substation is an operational electrical substation in Massachusetts, United States, owned and operated by National Grid. It handles voltages of 345 kV and 115 kV, serving the regional power grid.
Wakefield Junction Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Massachusetts, United States. Owned and operated by National Grid, this facility plays a key role in the regional transmission network, handling high-voltage electricity at 345 kV and 115 kV. The substation is part of the broader New England power grid, which is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. As a high-voltage substation, Wakefield Junction facilitates the step-down of transmission-level electricity for distribution to local communities and industrial users. The substation's dual voltage levels indicate its function as a critical node connecting bulk power transmission lines to lower-voltage distribution networks. National Grid, a major utility in the northeastern US, operates this facility under strict regulatory oversight to ensure grid stability and reliability. The substation's location in Massachusetts places it within a densely populated region with high electricity demand. Its role in the grid is essential for maintaining power supply reliability to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The facility's operational status and adherence to NERC standards contribute to the overall resilience of the regional electrical infrastructure.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a suburban area of Massachusetts, where land use is a mix of residential and commercial developments. High-voltage substations like Wakefield Junction are typically designed with minimal environmental footprint, though they require clearances for safety and maintenance. The surrounding ecosystem includes urban-adapted species, and the facility's operation is subject to local environmental regulations regarding electromagnetic fields and stormwater management.
Frequently asked questions
Wakefield Junction Substation is located in Massachusetts, United States, at coordinates 42.505263, -71.041656.
Wakefield Junction Substation operates at two voltage levels: 345 kV and 115 kV, making it a high-voltage substation critical for transmission and distribution.
The substation is owned and operated by National Grid, a major utility company serving the northeastern United States.
As part of the US power grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets.
Substations like Wakefield Junction transform voltage levels and route electricity between transmission lines and distribution networks, ensuring reliable power supply to homes and businesses.