We use a diverse array of fuels to generate reliable electrical service for your home or business. To deliver it, we use a sophisticated distribution system. Here’s how it works:
- Electricity travels through a transformer that "steps up" or increases the voltage, which allows the power to travel more efficiently over a long distance through large transmission lines.
- Transmission lines carry this ramped-up electricity to distribution substations. Banks of transformers step down the electricity's voltage, so it can travel through smaller distribution lines to residential and commercial districts throughout the service area.
- The power then travels by overhead or underground power lines to transformers on telephone poles or underground. These transformers reduce the voltage again so it can be safely delivered into your home and business.
- Electricity travels into buildings through wires called service drops. The service drops connect to a meter box, which measures the amount of electricity being used by a customer. The drops also connect to all of the wires that run inside a home or building’s walls to outlets and switches.
- When an electrical device is plugged in, electricity flows from the electrical wires in the wall through a plug's metal prongs, which then carries power through the appliance cord to the motor of the appliance. After powering the device, it then flows back through the appliance cord to the outlet, out to the wires and into the grid again.
Distributing energy is only part of the process. At CPS Energy, we constantly work to ensure the quality and reliability of our energy sources too. This means we:
- Continually measure electrical power quality.
- Maintain an active Power Quality Program, so customers can report any issues they’re having.
- Developed and are implementing a Strategic Energy Plan to ensure our resources for years to come.