Introduction

An electric power system is constituted of several subsystems. A single-line diagram of such a system with four major subsystems is shown on next slide.
Generation subsystem This system is constituted of groups of generating stations, where the conversion of energy from the primary energy source in one form (mechanical, thermal, nuclear, etc.) into

electrical energy takes place in electric generators through the

process of electromagnetic energy conversion. ( For more details about different Generating Stations . Click here

Transmission subsystem : The overhead transmission network

transfers electrical energy from generating stations located at

various locations, usually over long distances, to the

distribution system, from where it is distributed.

Sub-transmission system :The sub-transmission network is the portion of the transmission system that connects the highvoltage substations through step-down transformers to the distribution substations.

Distribution subsystem : Distribution is the process by which energy is fed locally to various distribution substations in a given area from one or more main transmission substations. A distribution subsystem is constituted of over-head distribution lines and underground cables,

and its function is to supply quality power to consumers.

Protection and control subsystem : This subsystem is constituted of relays, switchgear, and other control devices that protect the various subsystems against faults and overloads, and ensures efficient, reliable, and economic operation of the electric power system.

Important Note :

Click on underground cables & Switchgear to read more details

These two Topics are in Your Syllabus

Transformers are used in all the subsystems. A transformer transfers power with very high efficiency from one voltage level to another voltage level. Insulation requirements limit the generated voltage to low values, up to 30 kV. Thus step-up

transformers are used for the transmission of power at the

sending end of the transmission lines. At the receiving end of the transmission lines, step-down transformers are used to reduce the voltage to suitable values for distribution to the consumers of electrical energy.

Depending on power-handling capacity, there are two types of

transformers: power transformers and distribution transformers

Usually, power transformers are rated between 500 kVA and 1000 MVA, and distribution transformers are rated between 20 kVA and 500 kVA. In Single Line Diagram (Slide No.2) the voltage levels at the

various subsystems are indicated. EHV designates extra high

voltage, usually above 220 kV and up to 800 kV. HV denotes high voltage, usually from above 66 kV to no more than 220 kV. MV means medium voltage, usually above 1 kV but less than 66 kV. LV stands for low voltages, which are 1 kV or less.

Transmission Subsystem
The transformer and transmission line subsystem is designed to transmit

bulk electric power for consumption at the load centre's. In generating

stations, power is generated at voltage levels varying between 11 and 30 kV. The transformers at the generating station end step up the voltage to the

level suitable for the transmission of bulk power. Since these transformers
step up the voltage, they are also known as step-up transformers. The power transmitted over a transmission line is proportional to the square of the transmission voltage. Therefore, ideally it is desirable to have the highest possible transmission voltages. Therefore, continuous efforts are

undertaken to increase the transmission voltages. In the western countries,

power is trans-mitted at 765 kV. In India, the transmission voltage levels vary between 66 and 400 kV.

Transmission Subsystem

contd

When bulk power is to be transmitted over distances greater than 600 km, high-voltage dc transmission is more economical than high-voltage ac trans-mission. Transmission takes place at dc voltages of 400 kV and above. At the generator end, the ac voltage generated is stepped up to the transmission voltage level by a step-up transformer, which is converted into high-voltage dc by a converter circuit. A converter is a three-phase, full-wave bridge circuit consisting of silicon-controlled rectifiers that can

operate as rectifiers converting ac voltage into dc voltage . At the receiving

or the load end of the high-voltage dc transmission, a converter operating as an inverter is used to change high-voltage dc to high-voltage ac. The ac

voltage is then stepped down, using a step-down transformer , to a lower

voltage level for distribution to consumers of electrical energy.

Transmission Subsystem

contd

For the purpose of supplying power to small industries and

commercial and domestic consumers, the voltage is again stepped down at the distribution substation. The distribution of power is undertaken at two voltage levels : the primary or feeder voltage at 11 kV, and the secondary or consumer voltage at 415 V for a three-

phase supply and 230 V for a single-phase supply.

Sub-transmission System
The portion of the transmission system that connects high-voltage substations through step-down transformers to the distribution

substations is called the sub-transmission network. There is no

clear demarcation between the transmission and sub-transmission voltage levels. The voltage level of the sub-transmission system ranges from 66 kV to 132 kV. Some heavy industrial consumers are connected to the sub-transmission system.

A distribution subsystem is the part of an electric power system

between the step-down distribution substation and the consumers

service switches. A distributed system is designed to supply continuous and reliable power at the consumers terminals at minimum cost. A typical distribution system is shown in Fig.

At the distribution substation , the voltage level is brought down from 66 kV at the sub-transmission level to 11 kV at the distribution level . Each distribution substation normally serves its own area , which is a subdivision of the area served by the

distribution system . Distribution transformers are ordinarily

connected to each primary feeder and its sub feeders and laterals . Each transformer or bank of transformers serves to step down the voltage to the utilization voltage 415 V (three phase) or 230 V (single phase) , and supply a consumer or a group of

consumers over its secondary circuit . Each consumer is connected

to the secondary circuit through service leads and a meter.