Transmissionsnät

Transmissionsnät, often translated as transmission network, refers to the infrastructure used to carry and distribute electricity over long distances. It forms the backbone of any electrical power system, connecting power generation plants to substations where the voltage is stepped down for local distribution. These networks consist of high-voltage transmission lines, substations, and associated equipment. The primary purpose of a transmission network is to efficiently transport large amounts of electrical energy from where it is produced to where it is consumed, often across significant geographical areas.

The voltage levels in transmission networks are typically very high, ranging from tens of thousands of volts to several hundred thousand volts. This high voltage is crucial for minimizing energy loss during long-distance transport. As electricity travels through conductors, some energy is dissipated as heat due to electrical resistance. By increasing the voltage, the current required to transmit the same amount of power is reduced, and energy loss is proportional to the square of the current. Therefore, higher voltages result in much lower transmission losses.

Substations play a vital role within the transmission network. They house transformers that can increase or decrease voltage levels, switches that can reroute power, and other protective and control equipment. These substations are strategically located to manage the flow of electricity and to connect different parts of the transmission system or to link it to the distribution network. The reliable operation of the transmission network is essential for maintaining a stable and continuous electricity supply to homes, businesses, and industries.