1. Generation at the Hydroelectric Power Station:
- At the hydroelectric power station, the potential energy of the stored water behind a dam is converted into mechanical energy.
- Water is released from the reservoir through a turbine, causing the blades of the turbine to rotate.
- The spinning turbine shaft is connected to a generator, which converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction.
2. Transmission of Electricity:
- Once generated, the electricity needs to be transmitted over long distances from the power station to populated areas where it is consumed.
- High-voltage transmission lines are used for this purpose. These lines carry electricity at extremely high voltage levels (hundreds of thousands of volts) to reduce power loss during transmission.
- The electricity is transmitted through a network of interconnected transmission lines, which form the transmission grid.
- Substations along the transmission lines are used to transform the electricity from high voltage to lower voltage levels suitable for distribution.
3. Distribution of Electricity:
- After transmission, the electricity is distributed to local communities and individual households.
- Distribution lines, which are typically at lower voltage levels than transmission lines, carry the electricity from substations to residential areas.
- Distribution transformers further reduce the voltage to levels that are safe for household use (usually around 220 volts). These transformers are usually mounted on utility poles or in underground vaults.
4. Delivery to Homes:
- The distribution lines deliver the electricity to homes and businesses through a network of local power lines and connections.
- Each home or building has an electrical service panel or breaker box, which acts as the central point of entry for electricity.
- Within the home, the electricity is further distributed to various electrical outlets, light fixtures, appliances, and devices through internal wiring.
5. Metering and Billing:
- Electric meters are installed by the electricity provider to measure the amount of electricity consumed by each household or business.
- The meter readings are used to calculate the electricity bills for consumers, based on their usage.
