An energy grid is an interconnected network that delivers energy in the form of electricity to society. In the US, the process of distribution begins at the power plants. The USA is a developed nation, so we have access to different methods to create energy from power plants. These methods include using coal, gas, nuclear power, solar power, wind power, and even hydro power. After the power plants convert the energy into electricity, the electricity is transported to substations through large power lines called transmission lines. The substations are responsible for taking all the high voltage electricity from the transmission lines and converting it to a lower voltage so that it can be run through smaller power lines. The next step involves transporting this lower voltage electricity from the substations through above/underground smaller power lines called distribution lines. These distribution lines are the ones you would see more commonly on the side of the street and in neighborhoods. The distribution lines are the power lines responsible for getting the electricity to your home, buildings, and businesses.

The US is covered with over 450,000 miles of transmission lines. They have broken up the nation into three subsections to help accommodate demands. These three smaller grids, or interconnections, were broken up geographically into the western, eastern, and Texas interconnections. The system goes further to classify smaller local grids into microgrids. While we have top of the line equipment there are still major issues with energy grid and the weather. Bad weather, rain/wind, is responsible for the most power outages.

Most recently the US has made moves to enhance cyber security and have actually already invested 100 million dollars to this. Also, the dependence on the energy grid is growing. This is a result of technological advancements, easy accessibility, population increase, etc. With that being said the level of output is meeting demand.

Sources:

– Class Notes

– http://www.cpsenergy.com/Services/Generate_Deliver_Energy/Energy_Delivery/

– http://energy.gov/articles/top-9-things-you-didnt-know-about-americas-power-grid