Overview
Willow Valley Substation is an operational electrical substation in Texas, United States, owned and operated by Oncor. It handles voltages of 345 kV and 138 kV, serving as a key node in the regional transmission grid.
Willow Valley Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Texas, United States. Owned and operated by Oncor, a major transmission and distribution utility, the facility handles high voltages of 345 kV and 138 kV, indicating its role in both bulk power transmission and sub-transmission. The substation is situated in a rural area of West Texas, supporting the region's electrical infrastructure. The substation operates under the regulatory framework of the North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), which enforce reliability standards for the bulk power system. Oncor, as a transmission owner, must comply with NERC's Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) standards and FERC's tariff requirements. The dual voltage levels suggest the substation likely includes step-down transformers to connect the 345 kV transmission grid to the 138 kV sub-transmission network, serving local distribution needs. As part of Oncor's extensive network in Texas, Willow Valley Substation contributes to grid stability and reliability for the surrounding area. Its location in a rural setting underscores its role in delivering power to agricultural and small urban communities. The substation's operational status and voltage class highlight its significance in maintaining the integrity of the regional electrical system.
Environmental context
The substation is located in a semi-arid region of West Texas, characterized by low rainfall and high evaporation rates. The surrounding landscape is primarily agricultural, with cotton and grain farming. Electrical infrastructure in such areas must be designed to withstand extreme weather events, including high winds and occasional ice storms. The substation's equipment, such as transformers and switchgear, is typically insulated and protected against dust and temperature fluctuations. The rural setting also means the substation may have a larger footprint to accommodate lower population density and longer transmission line spans.
Frequently asked questions
Willow Valley Substation is located in Texas, United States, near coordinates 32.650667, -101.396117. It is situated in a rural area of West Texas.
Willow Valley Substation handles voltages of 345 kV and 138 kV, making it a key node in the transmission and sub-transmission network.
Willow Valley Substation is owned and operated by Oncor, a major electric transmission and distribution utility in Texas.
Willow Valley Substation operates under NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations, which govern the reliability and security of the bulk power system in the United States.
Substations like Willow Valley are critical for stepping voltage levels up or down, switching circuits, and ensuring reliable power delivery. They connect transmission lines to distribution networks and help maintain grid stability.