A power substation is an essential part of an electrical power distribution system. It's a facility where electricity is transferred from high-voltage transmission lines to lower voltage levels suitable for distribution to residential, commercial, and industrial consumers. The process involves steps such as voltage transformation, control, and protection of the electrical power grid.
There are different types of substations based on their functions and locations, including:
1. Step-down Substations: Primarily used to lower transmission voltages for distribution.
2. Step-up Substations: Rarely found in distribution networks, but used at power generation sites to increase voltage before transmission.
3. Distribution Substations: Closer to consumers, they further reduce voltage for local distribution.
4. Transformer Substations: Focused solely on transforming voltage, without significant switching or control equipment.
5. Switching Substations: Used mainly for routing power and do not necessarily transform voltage.
Overall, power substations play a critical role in ensuring the efficient, reliable, and safe delivery of electricity from power plants to end-users. They are a vital link in the complex infrastructure that powers modern societies.