Overview
West River Substation is an operational electrical substation in the United States, owned and operated by United Illuminating Company. It operates at 115 kV, serving the regional grid.
West River Substation is an operational electrical substation located in the United States, owned and operated by United Illuminating Company. The facility operates at a voltage of 115 kV, placing it within the sub-transmission or distribution voltage range typical for regional power distribution. As a substation in the United States, West River Substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards and is subject to Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversight for transmission-level assets. The facility likely incorporates standard substation automation technologies, including protection relays and SCADA systems, to ensure grid stability and reliability. The substation plays a critical role in the local electrical infrastructure, stepping down voltage for distribution to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. Its location in Connecticut supports the regional grid's reliability and resilience, contributing to the state's energy needs and economic activity.
Environmental context
The substation is located in an urban or suburban area of Connecticut, where electrical infrastructure must balance reliability with environmental considerations. The 115 kV voltage level indicates moderate environmental footprint, with typical concerns including electromagnetic fields, noise from transformers, and potential impacts on local wildlife. The facility's age and technology level influence its environmental performance, with modern substations often incorporating SF6-free switchgear and oil containment systems.
Frequently asked questions
West River Substation is located in the United States, specifically in Connecticut, near coordinates 41.2885, -72.9380. It is owned and operated by United Illuminating Company.
West River Substation operates at a voltage of 115 kV, which is typical for sub-transmission or distribution substations in the United States.
West River Substation is owned and operated by United Illuminating Company, a utility serving customers in Connecticut.
As a substation in the United States, West River Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets. It also adheres to ISO/IEC 61850 standards for substation automation.
A 115 kV substation typically steps down high-voltage transmission power to lower voltages for distribution to homes and businesses. It also provides switching and protection functions to maintain grid reliability.