Why is electricity distributed using extremely high voltages?

Why is electricity distributed using extremely high voltages?

• A. To keep voltage levels manageable in residential areas
• B. To reduce loss through the lines
• C. To allow for greater energy storage
• D. To improve transformer efficiency

Answer: (B)

The distribution of electricity at extremely high voltages is mainly aimed at reducing loss through the lines. When electricity is transmitted over long distances, a portion of the energy is lost as heat due to the resistance of the conductors. This loss is proportional to the square of the current (I²R losses), which means that by increasing the voltage and thereby reducing the current, significant losses can be minimized. Using high voltage enables the same amount of power (which is the product of voltage and current) to be transmitted with much less current. This reduction in current flow decreases the energy lost as heat, making the system more efficient over long distances. Essentially, high-voltage transmission is a key strategy for ensuring that more of the generated electricity reaches its destination without being wasted, which is critical for maintaining efficiency in the power distribution network.

The distribution of electricity at extremely high voltages is mainly aimed at reducing loss through the lines. When electricity is transmitted over long distances, a portion of the energy is lost as heat due to the resistance of the conductors. This loss is proportional to the square of the current (I²R losses), which means that by increasing the voltage and thereby reducing the current, significant losses can be minimized.

Using high voltage enables the same amount of power (which is the product of voltage and current) to be transmitted with much less current. This reduction in current flow decreases the energy lost as heat, making the system more efficient over long distances. Essentially, high-voltage transmission is a key strategy for ensuring that more of the generated electricity reaches its destination without being wasted, which is critical for maintaining efficiency in the power distribution network.