Components of the Electrical Grid

Broadly speaking, the electricity distribution grid is the system that ensures the supply of energy from transformer stations to consumption points, such as homes and businesses.

To maintain its efficiency and safety, various components of a distribution grid are involved. At i-DE, we explain what they are and how they contribute to the proper functioning of the system.

What Are the Components of the Electrical Grid?

The components of an electrical grid are the physical elements and infrastructures that allow energy to flow efficiently throughout the territory.

Each grid component serves a function, from voltage transformation or flow control to equipment and installation protection.

This structure ensures that the supply is continuous and adapted to actual consumption needs.

Learn more about how electricity is distributed.
 

What Are the Components of an Electrical Grid?

The distribution grid is made up of different infrastructures that work in sequence to transport energy.

Below, we break down the main components of an electrical grid:

Substations

The main function of an electrical substation is to transform voltage levels to adapt them to the different stages of transmission or distribution, and to ensure load balance in the grid.

They also include protection and control systems that ensure the safe operation of the system.

Transformer Substations

These substations are responsible for modifying voltage levels from very high (400, 220, and 132 kV) to intermediate voltages (66, 45, and 30 kV), facilitating the flow of energy to areas closer to consumption.
They also play an important role in controlling energy flow and maintaining system stability.

Distribution Substations

Distribution substations further adjust the voltage, stepping it down from intermediate levels (66 and 45 kV) to distribution voltages (20, 15, 13.2, and 11 kV).
They are essential for segmenting the grid and delivering electricity to specific areas, as well as enabling grid operations and equipment protection.

Distribution Networks

These are responsible for connecting transformer stations to final consumption points. These networks make it possible for energy to reach homes, industries, public services, and businesses, both in urban and rural areas.

Transmission Lines

Transmission lines allow for the transport of large volumes of energy at high voltage from generation plants to substations.

Thanks to them, long distances can be covered with minimal losses, making the entire electrical process efficient 

Transformers

Transformers are devices that modify voltage levels depending on the stage of the process. They can increase voltage to facilitate transmission or reduce it to adapt it for consumption. 

Measuring Equipment

These are devices that monitor and record electrical flow. Thanks to them, actual consumption can be tracked, billing managed, and grid behavior analyzed to improve efficiency. 

Protection Equipment

These devices detect abnormal situations (overloads, short circuits, etc.) and act automatically to disconnect affected parts of the grid, protecting both installations and people, and ensuring supply continuity.

Insulators

Insulators prevent unwanted current flow to metal structures or the ground. They ensure the safety of installations and maintain the proper functioning of grid conductors. 

Service Connections

Service connections are the links between the distribution grid and the consumption point. Through them, electricity reaches your home or business.

If your electricity distributor is i-DE and you need it, you can manage your connection requests through the Service Connection Management

Structures

These include towers, poles, and supports that hold power lines in the air. These structures ensure the mechanical stability of the grid and its proper layout, even under adverse weather conditions. 

Electrical Panels

These are control points that house command, protection, and switching elements. They allow energy to be distributed to different areas, control its flow, and act in case of incidents. 

Grounding Systems

Grounding systems divert potential current leaks directly into the ground, protecting people, equipment, and installations from electrical faults. They are one of the most important safety elements in the entire grid.