What does the term 'line loss' refer to?

The term 'line loss' refers to the reduction of electric power as it travels along transmission lines due to resistance. This phenomenon occurs because when electric current flows through conductors, some of the energy is dissipated as heat due to the resistance within the material. This loss is a critical consideration in the design and operation of power transmission systems, as it affects the overall efficiency of the electrical grid. To minimize line losses, utilities often use high-voltage transmission lines, which reduce the current flowing through the conductors for a given power level, thereby decreasing the resistive losses. Understanding line loss is essential for linemen and electrical engineers to ensure efficient delivery of electricity from generation points to consumers.