National Electricity Grid

Vocabulary flashcards covering the components, issues, and definitions related to the national electricity grid, grid overloads, and power surges.

Transformer

A device that steps the voltage up to a higher value or steps the voltage down to a lower value.

Grid overload

A condition where the demand for electricity is more than the available supply.

Load shedding

A system where power to certain areas is cut when the demand for electricity is more than Eskom can provide, done to prevent a grid overload.

Power surge

The sudden increase in voltage supply, which can be caused by lightning or redirecting power and can damage sensitive electronics such as computers.

Surge protectors

Devices that can be installed in a household to protect electronics from power surges.

Substation

A facility that lowers the voltage of electricity for household usage when it reaches its destination.

National Grid

The system formed by all of the power stations, transformers, substations, and power lines.

Coal-burning power stations

Power stations where most of South Africa's electricity is produced, resulting in serious air pollution.

Eskom

The electricity supplier in South Africa that implements load shedding when electrical demand exceeds available supply.