Book 22, Question 103
Why Do Long-Distance Power Lines Use Such High Voltage?
Big power lines carry electricity over long distances. They use very high voltage to do it. Let's learn why! Some long power lines carry hundreds of thousands of volts.
More fun facts
- High voltage lines hang between tall metal towers and carry electricity long distances.
- Higher voltage makes sending electricity far away more efficient and less expensive.
- Lower voltage electricity is safer to use in homes and businesses.
- Transformers at substations change the voltage.
- Distribution lines carry the lower voltage electricity to customers.
Sources: eia.gov
Questions kids ask
Why not send high voltage into houses?
Lower voltage electricity is safer to use in homes, so it is lowered before it reaches you.