Electricity grids Flashcards
What is an electrical grid?
A network for delivering electricity from producers to consumers.
What are the three main components of an electrical grid?
Generation, transmission, and distribution.
What is the difference between AC and DC transmission?
AC changes direction periodically; DC flows in one direction.
Why is AC preferred for most grid transmission?
Easier voltage transformation and lower losses over short distances.
What is a transmission substation?
Equipment that transforms voltage levels for long-distance transmission.
What is a transformer?
A device that changes voltage levels to reduce energy loss in transmission.
Define line loss in transmission systems.
Energy loss due to resistance in transmission lines.
What is reactive power?
Power needed to maintain voltage stability but doesn’t perform useful work.
What is frequency regulation in power grids?
Keeping the grid frequency stable, typically around 50-60 Hz.
What causes a blackout?
Failure in grid balance between supply and demand.
What is load balancing?
Managing generation and consumption to keep the grid stable.
What are smart grids?
Digitally enhanced grids for real-time demand response and optimization.
What is an HVDC transmission system?
High Voltage Direct Current for long-distance transmission with lower losses.
What is the role of a distribution substation?
Reduces transmission voltage for local distribution.
What is islanding in microgrids?
When a microgrid operates independently from the main grid.
