The Electrical Grid and Electricity Supply | A Simple Explanation

Learn how the power grid works and how electricity is delivered to your home! Learn all of an electrical grid’s main components, design features, and how it works! Essential knowledge for anyone working in the electrical engineering or power engineering industries!

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▶️How Electrical Grids Work

Electrical power is predominantly generated in power stations although smaller generation sites now exist (solar panel installations etc.). More than 95% of the world’s electrical power is generated from turbines. Turbines act as prime movers and cause rotors within generators to rotate.

Once electrical power has been generated, it is distributed through a series of conductors (think of copper or aluminium cables) to an electrical transformer.

Electrical transformers increase voltage and consequently reduce the current (Ohms law), but the power remains roughly the same. It is necessary to increase the voltage to reduce power losses (P=I^2R), but it also allows for the use of smaller conductors to be used. Transformers that increase voltage are referred to as ‘step-up’ transformers.

Conductors then feed from the transformer to a series of transmission towers (electrical pylons). Power reaches the area where it will be consumed and is reduced in voltage by a step-down transformer (voltage reducing transformer).

The equipment necessary to increase and reduce voltage (transformers, breakers, surge arresters etc.) are housed within structures known as ‘substations’ (normally open air switchyards).

It may be necessary to reduce the voltage several times until it reaches a level that is suitable for consumers (10 kV, 6 kV, 3 kV, 380 V etc.). The voltage required by consumers depends upon how the electrical power is utilised. Industrial plants require 3 phase medium voltage power whilst residential areas require single phase (1 phase) 220 V or 110 V. The power grid is split into generation, transmission and distribution sections.

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