The Ampere is the unit of quantity of electric current.

A means of storing electric energy by chemical means. Consists of one or more “cells” each containing an anode, cathode and electrolyte.

The complete path of an electric current.

The general term to describe a mechanical device that breaks the flow of current when it exceeds a set amount. Circuit breakers vary from the small low voltage units found in domestic switchboards, to large outdoor units installed in high voltage switchyards.

A group of electrically charged particles. Can be either positive or negative. Positive particles repel each other, just as negative particles repel each other. Positive particles are attracted to negative particles. Lightning is caused by accumulated charges that are attracted to opposite charges.

Materials which allow electric current to flow freely. Metals are generally good conductors, other materials are not.

The flow of electrons. Water flowing in a pipe is also current. Voltage is required to make electricity flow, just as water pressure is required to make water flow.

The lines, cables, substations, transformers and other equipment connected together to transport electric energy from our power stations to homes and industry. Distribution systems operate at voltages from low voltage (230 volts) to high voltages up to 22kV.

The percentage of electrical energy generated at a power station that is delivered to customers. Power flowing through cables and overhead conductors heats them up, causing losses. Designing of distribution system trades off the higher cost of larger cables against the cost of losses.

For alternating current electricity, the number of cycles occurring in each second. Referred to as “Hertz”. In Australia and Europe 50 Hertz (Hz) is used, while 60 Hz is used in the USA and much of SE Asia.