Electrical grid

An interconnected network that generates, transmits, and distributes electricity from producers to consumers. Its connected components must balance electricity supply and demand continuously.

Electric power transmission: The bulk transfer of electrical energy from generating stations to substations over high-voltage networks. High voltage carries power across long distances with lower resistive losses.
Electric generator: A device that converts mechanical energy or another energy source into electrical energy. Generators supply most grid electricity by converting mechanical rotation into electrical output.
Microgrid: A localized group of electricity sources and loads that can operate connected to or apart from a larger grid. Microgrids can maintain local service when the wider network is disrupted.
Power outage: A loss of electrical service affecting part or all of an electricity network. Failures or imbalances can interrupt service across connected parts of the grid.
Off-grid system: An energy system that operates without a connection to a larger electricity network. Off-grid systems serve loads independently rather than relying on interconnected grid supply.
Electric power distribution: The delivery of electricity from substations through local networks to homes, businesses, and other users. Distribution networks connect the grid’s bulk power system to end users.
Power plant: An industrial facility that converts energy from fuel, nuclear reactions, or natural flows into electricity. Power plants provide large-scale generation for connection to the grid.
Smart grid: An electricity network using digital monitoring and control to improve operation and coordinate resources. Digital controls help grids manage variable generation and changing demand.
Cascading failure: A sequence in which one component failure triggers further failures in an interconnected system. Overloaded lines and protective trips can spread a local grid disturbance.
Islanded operation: Operation of a section of an electric network as a self-contained system disconnected from the wider grid. Intentional islanding preserves local supply while suspending ties to the main network.

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