Back to: BLACKOUT “Basic”

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Structure of the electricity grid: from the power station to the socket

The electricity grid consists of several levels:

  • power plants: generate electricity from fossil fuels, nuclear power, hydro, wind or solar.
  • transmission grid: transports high-voltage electricity over long distances.
  • distribution grid: Reduces the voltage and distributes electricity to households and businesses.
  • end consumers: Use the electricity for industrial or private purposes.

System-critical infrastructures and their vulnerabilities

Electricity grids are essential for modern societies. Hospitals, waterworks, telecommunications systems and transport depend on the electricity grid. A prolonged power outage can have life-threatening consequences if vital facilities fail.

The term “system collapse” – what happens when the power grid fails?
If the power grid collapses over a large area, a chain reaction occurs:

power plants automatically shut down to prevent damage.

communication systems fail so that no coordination is possible

water supply and means of transport (trains, petrol stations) no longer function.

the population is dependent on emergency power, supplies and improvised solutions.