Module 4: Distribution – Delivering to and Serving the Customer
4.2 DISTRIBUTION INFRASTRUCTURE AND ASSETS Electricity distribution infrastructure takes many forms—from whole buildings to poles and wires. In addition, there are other assets such as vehicles that play an important role within distribution infrastructure operations. What is Distribution Infrastructure? Distribution infrastructure includes substations, transmission lines, poles, transformers, vaults and switchgear. Each element of infrastructure has an important role to play in ensuring that electricity makes its way to the end consumer as efficiently and safely as possible.
Substations Substations serve as vital nodes between electricity generation, transmission, and distribution systems. Substations are where voltage is transformed either from low-to-high, or high-to-low among other important functions. They commonly serve as an offramp from the electricity superhighway. Electricity may pass through several substations at different voltage levels as it flows from the generator to the end user. Substations can be found at various inter-connections. Generation Stations Substations can be found at generation stations, where electricity may need to be “stepped up” to a level at which it can be moved across transmission lines. Transmission or Distribution Grids Substations can be found within either a transmission or distribution grid, where a change in voltage levels is needed. Between Grids Substations can be found between the transmission grid and the distribution grid, where electricity needs to be “stepped down” to a level at which it can be moved across distribution lines and used. Between the Grid and the Consumer Substations can be found between the grid and a large industrial or commercial electricity customer.
Electricity Canada | Electricity Fundamental in Canada: Student Handbook
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