The Key Differences between DC and AC Electricity Distributions

1. The Key Differences between DC
and AC Electricity Distributions
By: Dianoush Emami

2. The Key Differences between DC and AC Electricity
Distributions
With a bachelor’s in electrical engineering from the University of Southern California, Dianoush
Emami is an experienced electrical engineer and safety expert who has overseen many projects in
the alternative and traditional energy sectors. Over the years, Dianoush Emami has helped design
and implement transmission systems, electrical substations, and distribution grids.

3. The Key Differences between DC and AC Electricity
Distributions
Electricity is primarily distributed in one of two ways, direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC).
Today, the vast majority of electricity is transmitting using AC because the voltage can easily be
changed with the help of a transformer. Transformers allow AC power to be transmitted at a high
voltage and then safely scaled down for distribution to homes and commercial properties.

4. The Key Differences between DC and AC Electricity
Distributions
While the majority of electricity is transmitted as AC, some applications, such as variable speed
machinery, still require DC. In this case, the conversion from AC to DC happens at a substation
through converting machinery like mercury arc rectifiers, motor-generator sets, and rotary
converters.

5. The Key Differences between DC and AC Electricity
Distributions
Once this conversion takes place, the DC is delivered to end users via a system that is different
from AC distribution. The two systems are not interchangeable.