Overview
West Walpole Substation is an operational electrical substation in Walpole, Massachusetts, owned and operated by Eversource. It handles voltages of 345 kV and 115 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
West Walpole Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Walpole, Massachusetts, United States. Owned and operated by Eversource, the facility is a critical component of the regional transmission network, handling high-voltage electricity at 345 kV and 115 kV. This dual-voltage capability allows it to interconnect major transmission lines and distribute power to local distribution networks. The substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. As part of the ISO New England grid, it plays a role in maintaining system stability and meeting regional electricity demand. The facility's equipment likely includes modern switchgear and protection systems compliant with industry standards such as ISO/IEC 61850 for substation automation. West Walpole Substation supports the electrical infrastructure of southeastern Massachusetts, serving both residential and commercial customers. Its strategic location near major load centers enhances grid resilience and facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources. The substation's operational status ensures continued reliability for the surrounding communities and contributes to the overall robustness of the New England power system.
Environmental context
The substation is situated in a suburban area of Walpole, Massachusetts, characterized by mixed residential and commercial land use. The surrounding environment includes wooded areas and wetlands, which may influence siting and operational considerations such as stormwater management and wildlife protection. The facility's high-voltage equipment is designed to minimize electromagnetic field exposure, and standard practices for oil containment and fire suppression are in place to mitigate environmental risks.
Frequently asked questions
West Walpole Substation is located in Walpole, Massachusetts, United States, at coordinates 42.131378, -71.268330.
West Walpole Substation handles voltages of 345 kV and 115 kV, making it a high-voltage substation that interconnects transmission lines and distributes power to lower-voltage networks.
West Walpole Substation is owned and operated by Eversource, a major utility company serving parts of New England.
As part of the US electrical grid, West Walpole Substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations. It also operates under the ISO New England regional transmission organization.
West Walpole Substation serves as a key node in the regional transmission grid, facilitating the reliable delivery of electricity from generation sources to distribution networks serving residential and commercial customers in southeastern Massachusetts.