Understanding the Transmission of High Voltage Electricity in Saudi Arabia: 11kV, 22kV, 33kV, 66kV, and 132kV

When discussing electricity transmission in Saudi Arabia, it is crucial to understand why certain transmission voltages such as 11kV, 22kV, 33kV, 66kV, and 132kV are used. This article will delve into the technical details and reasoning behind these specific voltages, and explain how they are determined to ensure efficient and reliable electricity distribution.

What is High Voltage Transmission?

High voltage transmission refers to the method of transferring electricity over long distances to large consumers. Unlike lower voltage systems, high voltage transmission (HVT) minimizes power loss and reduces the need for large conductors. This is particularly important in regions like Saudi Arabia, where power generation and transmission often involve large distances and high power demands.

The Role of Transmission Line Resistance and Voltage Drop

When electricity is transmitted over long distances, it encounters resistance in the transmission lines. This resistance leads to a phenomenon known as the voltage drop, where the voltage at the receiving end is lower than the transmitted voltage. To counteract these losses, transmission companies increase the transmitted voltage by an extra 10%. This means that what is transmitted at 10kV, 20kV, 30kV, 60kV, and 120kV, becomes 11kV, 22kV, 33kV, 66kV, and 132kV, respectively, at the transmission point.

The Technical Explanation

Prior to transmission, power houses aim to deliver voltages in multiples of 10 such as 10kV, 20kV, and so on. However, due to the transmission line resistance, the received voltage at the end of the line is often 10% less than the transmitted voltage. This 10% reduction is crucial to consider, especially when dealing with long distances and high power loads.

To prevent this 10% voltage drop, the power houses transmit voltages that are 10% higher than the desired receiving voltage. Thus, for example, 110kV is transmitted as the base voltage for 11kV, 220kV for 22kV, 330kV for 33kV, 660kV for 66kV, and 1320kV for 132kV. By doing so, the receiving end voltage is maintained at the required level, ensuring efficient electricity distribution and reducing the need for additional and costly power stations.

The Significance for Grid Stability and Reliability

Utilizing these high transmission voltages provides several benefits. Firstly, it allows for the efficient transfer of large amounts of electricity over long distances without significant losses. Secondly, these higher voltage levels reduce the physical size of conductors needed, which in turn lowers the cost of construction and maintenance of the power lines.

Moreover, the higher transmission voltage levels contribute to grid stability and reliability, as they enable better control of the electricity flow and management of power fluctuations. This is especially important in a context like Saudi Arabia, where large-scale industrial and residential usage requires a robust and dependable power supply.

Conclusion

In summary, the use of 11kV, 22kV, 33kV, 66kV, and 132kV in electricity transmission is not arbitrary. These voltages are carefully selected to ensure that, despite transmission line resistance, the receiving end voltage remains at the specified level. By adding 10% to the transmission voltage, power companies can balance electrical losses and maintain grid stability, providing reliable and efficient electricity to consumers in Saudi Arabia.

Understanding this concept is crucial for anyone involved in the electricity industry, whether as an engineer, policy maker, or consumer. It highlights the intricate relationship between transmission technology and the practical realities of power distribution, ensuring that the electricity we use is delivered in a safe and efficient manner.