2n. Understanding the Electrical Grid
After electricity is generated, it must be sent from the power plant to consumers. The electrical grid is the network used to distribute electricity. The grid is comprised of the:
- • Generating power plant
- • Transmission lines
- • Substation transformers
- • Distribution lines
- • Consumer
The electrical grid is divided into three main components:
Generation
There are two types of generation—centralized and decentralized. Centralized generation refers to large-scale generation from power plants. The grid connects centralized power to consumers. Decentralized generation occurs close to the consumers, for example rooftop solar panels.
Transmission and Distribution
Transmission includes transformers, substations and power lines that transport electricity from power plants to points of consumption.
Consumption
There are various types of consumers such as industrial, commercial, and residential consumers. Each of these consumers has different needs in terms of the amount of power.