What is the main objective of transmission lines in an electrical grid?

The main objective of transmission lines in an electrical grid is to deliver power with minimal loss. Transmission lines are designed to carry high-voltage power over long distances from generation plants (such as power stations) to substations, where the voltage is lowered for distribution to end users.

When electricity flows through a transmission line, various factors, such as resistance and reactance, can cause energy loss in the form of heat. Therefore, one crucial aspect of transmission line design is to minimize these losses, thereby ensuring that as much power as possible reaches its destination. High-voltage transmission is particularly effective for this purpose, as raising voltage levels reduces current flow, which in turn reduces resistive losses.

While regulating voltage levels, measuring current flow, and isolating faulty equipment are essential functions within an electrical grid, they are not the primary purpose of transmission lines. Instead, these functions relate to maintaining system stability and safety across the entire grid infrastructure.