Overview
Woonsocket Substation, operated by Rhode Island Energy, is an operational electrical substation in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, United States, handling voltages of 115 kV and 13.8 kV.
Woonsocket Substation is an operational electrical substation located in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, United States. It is owned and operated by Rhode Island Energy, a major utility serving the region. The substation handles primary voltage of 115 kV and secondary voltage of 13.8 kV, indicating its role in stepping down transmission-level power for local distribution. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, Woonsocket Substation operates under the regulatory oversight of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. The substation likely employs modern switchgear and protection systems compliant with ISO/IEC 61850 for substation automation, ensuring grid stability and safety. The substation plays a critical role in the local power grid, serving the Woonsocket area and surrounding communities. Its location in an urban setting underscores its importance for residential and commercial electricity supply. By stepping down high-voltage transmission power, it facilitates reliable distribution to end-users, supporting the region's energy needs.
Environmental context
Located in an urban area of Rhode Island, Woonsocket Substation operates within a densely populated environment. The substation's design and operation must consider electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure limits and noise regulations. Its proximity to residential and commercial areas necessitates adherence to strict safety and environmental standards, including proper oil containment for transformers and minimization of visual impact.
Frequently asked questions
Woonsocket Substation is located in Woonsocket, Rhode Island, United States, at coordinates 41.979540, -71.522886.
Woonsocket Substation is owned and operated by Rhode Island Energy, a utility company serving the state of Rhode Island.
Woonsocket Substation handles a primary voltage of 115 kV (transmission level) and a secondary voltage of 13.8 kV (distribution level).
Substations in the United States must comply with NERC reliability standards for grid stability and FERC regulations for transmission assets. Additionally, ISO/IEC 61850 standards for substation automation are commonly adopted.
Substations like Woonsocket step down high-voltage transmission power to lower voltages for distribution to homes and businesses, ensuring safe and reliable electricity supply.