Transmission Lines, Towers, and Substations

Power coming from remote power plants requires high-voltage power transmission lines, transmission towers, andsubstations. For your protection, stay away from all high-voltage electrical equipment.

Transmission lines carry electricity over long distances. Transmission towers are large structures that support thehigh-voltage transmission lines. These lines typically feed into a substation so that the electricity can be reducedto a level that can subsequently be used by our customers.

Towers and substations have "High Voltage" warning signs posted on them because of their extreme danger. Onlyqualified personnel may access these structures and facilities. Do not attempt entry into any substation and do nottouch any electrical tower.

The voltage in power lines in Austin's outer areas where electric power is generated can be as high as 345 kilovolts.In suburban areas, the voltage for many of the power lines is 138 kilovolts. Within the City's limits, 69 kilovoltsis a common voltage.

Substations help "step down" this high voltage so that by the time electricity is delivered to your home, the voltagehas been reduced to about 120 volts, or 0.120 kilovolts, a small fraction of what is transmitted through transmissionlines.

Transmission towers can be enticing to children and some adults because they look like tall ladders. However, youshould never climb a transmission tower. Only qualified utility personnel with specialized tools and safety gear canclimb towers safely.

For your protection, stay away from transmission towers all together and avoid contacting other high voltageelectrical equipment or power lines.