Electric cooperatives are using more mobile substations to give them the flexibility to respond to emergencies and carry out maintenance and new construction while enhancing service reliability. However, mobile substations are expensive to buy and maintain, and age quickly from extreme weather exposure and bumpy rides. This advisory reviews a cost-effective approach pursued by North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation (NCEMC) involving participation in a mobile pool, which provides access to several mobile substations at a very affordable cost.
NRECA's related Surveillance article series, A Summary of CEATI Station Equipment Program's Report: State-of-the-Art Review of Mobile Substations, provides valuable information for the purchasing, storage, deployment and maintenance of units.
