What type of voltage do most commercial power systems operate on?

Most commercial power systems operate on high voltage levels to facilitate the efficient transmission of electricity over long distances. High voltage minimizes energy losses due to resistance in the transmission lines, which is crucial for power utilities aiming to deliver electricity over extensive networks effectively.

Operating at high voltage allows for a reduction in the current required for a given power level, thereby decreasing the resistive losses (I²R losses) that occur as electricity travels through conductors. These systems typically range from around 34.5 kV up to several hundred kilovolts, depending on the infrastructure and requirements of the grid. By using high voltage for transmission, utilities can maintain the reliability and efficiency of the power supply to commercial and industrial users, as well as residential consumers.

In contrast, low voltage is more commonly associated with final distribution to end users, while medium and ultra-high voltage levels are generally utilized in specific applications or within particular segments of the transmission network. Therefore, recognizing that commercial power systems primarily function at high voltages is essential for understanding the efficiency and design of modern electrical grids.