Why is voltage increased from generator voltages to transmission voltages?

Increasing voltage from generator voltages to transmission voltages is primarily done to minimize power system losses. When electricity is transmitted over long distances, lower voltages lead to higher current levels. Higher current can result in increased resistive losses in the transmission lines, which are proportional to the square of the current (I²R losses). By raising the voltage and lowering the current, transmission efficiency improves, making it possible to transmit more power with less energy lost as heat.

This practice also enables the efficient transfer of electricity across vast distances, supporting the interconnectedness of power grids. The augmentation of voltage ensures that the infrastructure can move electricity effectively while maintaining stability and reliability in the overall power system.

While maximizing voltage may seem desirable, the focus is actually on reducing losses to improve efficiency. The requirement for less equipment is a consideration in transmission design, but it is not the primary reason for increasing voltage. Additionally, while increasing voltage can support larger customer loads, it is not the fundamental purpose of voltage increase in transmission systems. The core motivation remains the reduction of power losses, leading to a more effective transmission system.