Facts about Power Transmission and Distribution System

Power is probably one of the important facets of modern life; it can neither be created, nor can be destroyed. But it can simply be converted from one form to the other. Various forms of energy like hydro, thermal energy, ocean, and nuclear energy can be converted to generate electrical power. But how will this power reach our homes? Here comes the need of a proper power transmission and distribution system. Without an efficient power transmission and distribution system, power cannot reach homes. The generation station is the one where power is produced; it can be a hydro-electric, thermal or nuclear power station. The high-voltage power that is produced cannot go for direct transmission. To limit the huge copper loss, power is normally stepped up to 110 or 220 kv as per the need.

To transport the power, you will need transmission channels; in other words, you need to have a system in place known as power grid. The design of the transmission lines will be largely dependent on certain parameters like resistance, voltage levels, corona effect etc. The lines of transmission are also known as overhead lines. Once the power reaches the substation, the transmission of the power will come to an end. And now the distribution channel will help to distribute the power to individual specific customers.

Once the power reaches the substation, the power is stepped down to either 230 or 400v depending on whether it is single or a three-phase thing. This is known as primary distribution. But in different places like in the cities, the existence of overhead lines is not possible. In these cases, the distribution of power takes place through underground cables which are known as secondary distribution.

Some major players in power transmission

Apart from the number of public sector companies, there are quite a few reputed organizations which plays a huge role in the power transmission and distribution system of India. The transformation capacity of these companies often spans multiple cities. Numerous companies, for instance has vowed to provide cost-efficient, and high-quality power to all the residential and commercial zones in the country. One of their finest creations is transmission corridors which connect the important load centres and the major power generating areas. The sources of power generation like solar, hydro and coal are distributed in an extremely patchy manner throughout India. Without these transmission corridors, it is not even remotely possible to transmit the power to the utilities for proper supply of electricity.

The future of power transmission and distribution

It is not just about innovative methods; companies also look for sustainable solutions so that less damage is done to the environment. Use of aircranes to set up stations in remote regions is probably one of the most useful innovations of the day. Some technologies like the use of LIDAR or Light Detection and Ranging is being used by quite a few companies for topographic mapping. This cost-efficient method has proved to be doubly beneficial. It is not only better than manual survey, but involves fewer expenses as well.

The future of power transmission and distribution is quite promising; not only because innovative methods are used for the purpose, but also because power needs to be distributed far and wide.

Soni is affiliated with Sterlite Grid, Sterlite Grid is the largest private sector power transmission developer in India, and writes on topics related to power transmission.