Electricity helps to power our everyday lives and is delivered across the country from its source to its destination through the transmission network, also known as the power grid. There are two key processes that go into the delivery of electricity: electrical transmission and electrical distribution. But what is the difference between transmission and distribution of electricity? Below, we discuss these stages in further detail and why each is distinctly important.
What is Electricity Transmission?
The process of generating electricity and distributing it across the country begins with the generation of this power. This can be done using many different methods, whether this be through coal, gas, hydro, wind, or solar power. Once this power has been generated, it then needs to reach its destination. The process of transmitting electricity over long distances to transport it to where it needs to go is known as electricity transmission.
Electricity is sent out at very high voltages, typically between 275 and 400kV, to minimise energy loss over long distances as a result of the heat generated. This is done using a step-up transformer, which increases the voltage for long-distance transmission. This power is transmitted through transmission towers over very large distances, where it then reaches substations for electricity distribution.
What is Electricity Distribution?
Electricity distribution is the process that follows electricity transmission, which involves decreasing the power’s high voltage and distributing it to homes and businesses.
Once power has travelled across the transmission network and is closer to its destination, the high voltage then needs to be decreased for safe use. The voltage is first stepped down to 33 kV by a primary transformer, then supplied to 11 kV distribution substations, where it is further reduced, and ultimately delivered at about 230 V for end use by the general public.
What Is the Difference Between the Transmission and Distribution of Electricity?
Though electricity transmission and distribution have some similarities, they are two distinct processes at different stages of the electrical power transmission process. Both involve the delivery of electricity, though electricity transmission is the long-distance movement, while electricity distribution is the shorter-distance direct delivery of it.
They involve different levels of voltage, as transmission operates at very high voltages, whereas distribution uses much lower voltages for safe usage by customers. Transmission and distribution are also operated by different groups, as they are managed by transmission network operators and distribution network providers, respectively.
The Importance of Understanding the Difference
By understanding the difference between transmission and distribution, you can better understand what our services cover at Serconnect:
Our coverage: Transmission infrastructure is managed by national operators and isn’t part of our standard connection work. Your new development will likely connect to the distribution network, which we are accredited to work on.
Connection scope: If you’re planning a new development, commercial site, or EV infrastructure, your connection will almost always be to the distribution system, so you can have realistic expectations for costs and timelines.
Outage and load planning: Distribution networks are more likely to be affected by local faults or load constraints. Early assessment through our transformer maintenance and substation maintenance helps to identify and resolve potential electrical faults before they become more significant.
Transformer and Substation Support at Serconnect
Now that you know ‘what is electricity transmission and distribution’, you now have a greater understanding of how power is distributed across the country and what services we can provide within distribution networks.
Our services for transformers and substations help to ensure that problems along the distribution network are easily resolved or prevented. Alongside our electrical infrastructure maintenance, our expert team of experienced engineers can also assist you with substation installation and electrical connection upgrades to ensure that your site operates reliably and safely.
If you’d like to know more about our services as a trusted Independent Connection Provider, get in touch with us today, and our team will be more than happy to discuss your best options.
