What Is a Substation?

Electric systems use electric charges as a source of power distribution. One such electric system, called a substation, is a subsidiary station of another electric system that uses voltage.

Definition

• An electrical substation is typically a secondary station connected to an electrical distribution, generation or transmission station. It is used for changing or regulating voltage and measuring the quality of electric power passing through circuits. Electric power can flow through a number of electric substations between the power generating plant and the end consumer.

Transformers

• Electrical substations modify voltage from high or low, or AC (alternating current) to DC (direct current) or from low to high through the use of transformers. A transformer device sends electrical energy between currents via conductor coils. Step-up transformers in substations increase voltage while lowering current. Step-down transformers increase current while decreasing voltage.

Switching

• Electrical substations use switching to disconnect or connect transmission lines from and to the system. This involves the use of a switch, a device or component used to interrupt or divert the current from an electrical circuit.