Overview
Waukegan Substation is an operational electrical substation in Waukegan, Illinois, owned and operated by Commonwealth Edison. It operates at 138 kV, serving the regional power grid.
Waukegan Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Waukegan, Illinois, United States. Owned and operated by Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), a major utility in the region, the facility plays a key role in the local electrical infrastructure. The substation operates at a voltage of 138 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission and distribution-level assets in the U.S. grid. As part of ComEd's network, Waukegan Substation is subject to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulations for transmission-level assets. The 138 kV voltage class places it in a medium-voltage category, often used to distribute power from higher-voltage transmission lines to local distribution networks. The substation likely includes switchgear, transformers, and protection systems compliant with standards such as IEEE C37. Located in an urban area near Lake Michigan, the substation supports the electrical needs of Waukegan and surrounding communities. Its operational status ensures grid stability and reliability for residential, commercial, and industrial customers. The facility's role in the ComEd system contributes to the overall resilience of the regional power grid, particularly during peak demand periods.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in an urban environment in Waukegan, Illinois, near the Lake Michigan shoreline. Urban substations like this one are critical for local grid stability but may face challenges such as heat island effects and proximity to sensitive areas. The 138 kV voltage level indicates a medium-scale facility that balances transmission efficiency with local distribution needs. Proper maintenance of switchgear and transformers is essential to minimize environmental risks such as oil leaks or electromagnetic field exposure.
Frequently asked questions
Waukegan Substation is located in Waukegan, Illinois, United States, near the shore of Lake Michigan.
Waukegan Substation is owned and operated by Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), a major electric utility serving northern Illinois.
Waukegan Substation operates at 138 kV, which is a common voltage for sub-transmission and distribution substations in the United States.
As part of the U.S. power grid, Waukegan Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets.
A 138 kV substation typically steps down voltage from higher transmission lines (e.g., 345 kV) to distribution levels, serving local communities and industries.