The electric energy obtained in the electric generation process must be transported to the end user by electric conductors without large losses in the distribution process. A key part of the strategy for doing so involves using transformers to increase the voltage to hundreds of thousands of volts to minimize loss to heat in the transmission wires.

The three high voltage conductors shown on the utility pole at right indicate that the power distribution is "three-phase", with each conductor 120 degrees in phase away from each of the others. If each section of the large insulators can withstand a working voltage of 10,000 volts, these conductors may be operating at something like 150,000 volts.