Long-Distance Transmission of Electric Energy

The paper discusses long-distance transmission of electric energy dealing with (1) the economic conditions which justify it, (2) the plant involved, and (3) the service that may be expected. The economic conditions which justify long-distance transmission of electric energy are a cheap source of power with an insufficient local demand to absorb it, and a distant market to which the energy can be delivered cheaper than energy can be supplied at that point from any other source. In dealing with the plant required for long-distance transmission some of the considerations that affect the design are discussed. A graphic method of determining line performance is illustrated by an example, and some essential data on other lines are given. Among the important physical considerations entering into transmission line design, right of way, spacing of towers, line insulators, high-tension switches and lightning arresters are discussed. Service is considered from the viewpoints of, what people demand, what perfect service will cost, and the service that may be expected from a large interconnected system consisting of steam plants at the mines, hydro plants wherever available and local steam plants.