Electricity distribution

Electricity distribution is the final stage in the delivery of electricity to end users. Distribution networks are typically of two types, radial or interconnected. A radial network leaves the station and passes through the network area with no normal connection to any other supply. 

The adoption of alternating current for electricity generation following the War of Currents dramatically changed the situation. Power transformers, installed at power stations, could be used to raise the voltage from the generators, and transformers at local substations reduced it to supply loads. 

Increasing the voltage reduced the current in the transmission and distribution lines and hence the size of conductors and distribution losses. This made it more economical to distribute power over long distances. Generators (such as hydroelectric sites) could be located far from the loads.

A distribution system's network carries electricity from the transmission system and delivers it to consumers. Typically, the network would include medium-voltage power lines, electrical substations and pole-mounted transformers, low-voltage wiring and sometimes electricity meters.