ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book offers a brief perspective on the development of electric power systems. The electric power industry shapes and contributes to the welfare, progress, and technological advances of humanity. Edison Electric Illuminating Company of New York inaugurated the Pearl Street Station in 1881. The station had a capacity of four 250-hp boilers supplying steam to six engine-dynamo sets. Extra higher voltage (EHV) has become dominant in electric power transmission over great distances. In North America, the majority of electricity generation is produced by investor-owned utilities with a certain portion done by federally and provincially owned entities. The North American transmission system is interconnected into a large power grid known as the North American Power Systems Interconnection. An overhead transmission network transfers electric power from generating units to the distribution system supplying the load. Power systems loads are divided into industrial, commercial, and residential.
