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The National Grid
The National Grid is the high-voltage transmission system of cables and transformers in pylons or undersea interconnections. It connects power stations and sub-stations so that electricity generated is distributed throughout a country. Electricity produced by power station generators has a voltage of around 25,000 V. However this push is not enough to send it long distances, so a step-up transformer (see slide) at the power station boosts the voltage to 275,000 or 400,000 V for efficient transfer. Power (Watts), Current ( Amperes or Amps) and Voltage (Volts) are related in the equation: Watts = Amps x Volts So for a given power, increasing the voltage reduces the current required and this reduces heat energy loss in the cables. |
Step-down transformers adjust voltages according to the customer requirements.
E.g. In UK 240 V is needed in homes/offices, hospitals and light industries need 11,000 V while heavy industries need 30,000 V . |