Where Your Energy Comes From
What Is Electricity?
Electricity is the form of energy that powers our homes and connects us to the world. Electricity is a fundamental force that powers virtually every aspect of modern life, from lighting, heating, cooling, charging, and running appliances.
How Is Electricity Made?
The electricity we rely on is produced at power plants using a variety of energy sources:
- Traditional Sources:
- Fossil Fuels: Burning natural gas and coal to create steam for turbines
- Nuclear: Harnessing energy from the splitting of atoms
- Clean and Sustainable Alternatives (Renewables):
- Solar: Converting sunlight directly into electricity
- Wind: Using wind to power turbines
- Hydropower: Generating power from moving water
- Biomass & Geothermal: Utilizing the Earth’s heat and organic materials
The mix of these sources varies geographically and is shaped by local energy policies. Want to learn more about the different types of energy?
What Is the Electric Grid?
The electric grid is the interconnected network that makes electricity accessible wherever we need it. It’s a sophisticated system with three core components:
- Generation: Making the Electricity
Power plants and renewable energy facilities convert energy from various sources into electrical power. Large quantities are generated and fed into the grid. - Transmission: Moving Electricity
High-voltage power lines are responsible for efficiently transporting the electricity over long distances from the generation sites to local areas. These lines are often supported by large metal towers. - Distribution: Delivering Electricity
This final stage involves delivering electricity at a lower, safer voltage to individual consumers. Substations reduce the voltage from transmission lines, and local power lines to safely carry it to homes, businesses, and neighborhoods.
How Does Electricity Get To You?
From generation to your home, this graphic shows how electricity is produced and delivered to your community.
How High Energy Demand Affects the Grid
High energy demand periods, like hot summer days when air conditioners surge, strain the grid, potentially causing overloads and blackouts. This increased workload accelerates equipment wear and tear, leading to more frequent maintenance and potentially higher electricity costs, often with greater environmental impact.
The grid can also experience disruptions due to storms, accidents, or equipment failures. Grid operators prioritize restoring service as safely and quickly as possible.
The Grid Is Changing
The grid is undergoing significant modernization. Smart grid technologies improve reliability and with energy storage solutions, such as batteries, they play a crucial role in balancing energy supply and demand. The rise of microgrids and local renewable energy sources offers increased resilience during outages.
Find out how you can save money by reducing your energy usage and by adding a smart meter to your home.