Electricity 101

Electricity 101: What you need to know about transmission lines

Last week we discussed how electricity is generated. This week we’re taking a look at the first step in moving that electricity from the generation source to the homes, businesses and other properties that OPPD serves. 

Once we generate electricity in power stations, we use transformers in substations to increase the electricity’s voltage. We increase the voltage because electricity first travels via transmission lines, which often carry electricity long distances.

Transmission lines are extremely high voltage power lines; these are the lines you see stretching over open fields and along major roadways.   

 Voltage loss is a natural part of transmission. We increase the voltage to ensure electricity will reach our customers as efficiently as possible.  

 Check out this week’s video to learn more about how the process works.  

And come back next week, when we’ll discuss how we adjust the voltage again to prepare electricity to power your home.