Episode
How the Electrical Grid Works
1:05:09
Published: Tue Apr 13 2021
Description
The electrical grid that provides power to the US is one of those things you don’t give a second thought to until it stops working – then it’s tough to think about anything else. Learn why this engineering marvel is past its prime and how to update it. Learn more about your ad-choices at https://www.iheartpodcastnetwork.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chapters
In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck attempt to discuss rough drafts, but find themselves sidetracked in a discussion about their own names and daily hygiene habits.
00:00 - 02:00 (02:00)
Summary
In this episode of Stuff You Should Know, Josh and Chuck attempt to discuss rough drafts, but find themselves sidetracked in a discussion about their own names and daily hygiene habits.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
Electricity is deeply ingrained in our daily lives and it is often taken for granted until it is not available, highlighting its crucial importance.
02:00 - 06:38 (04:38)
Summary
Electricity is deeply ingrained in our daily lives and it is often taken for granted until it is not available, highlighting its crucial importance. It is interesting how power and water are so interwoven with our routines that we only become attentive towards them when they are not accessible.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
The use of solar power entails challenges such as the need for multiple generators, depending on the amount of electricity needed which can be 19,000 generators in some cases, as well as the availability of sunlight and cooperation from power companies.
06:38 - 09:18 (02:40)
Summary
The use of solar power entails challenges such as the need for multiple generators, depending on the amount of electricity needed which can be 19,000 generators in some cases, as well as the availability of sunlight and cooperation from power companies.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
Energy portfolios combine different sources of electricity, such as wind farms and nuclear power plants, that provide electricity to the grid.
09:18 - 15:59 (06:41)
Summary
Energy portfolios combine different sources of electricity, such as wind farms and nuclear power plants, that provide electricity to the grid. These portfolios make it more challenging to invest in insulating pipelines as it may seem unnecessary to companies.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
This episode explores the early days of electrification in America, including FDR’s push to pass the Federal Power Act of 1935 which regulated the powerful electric utilities and the development of a wholesale power market.
15:59 - 21:08 (05:09)
Summary
This episode explores the early days of electrification in America, including FDR’s push to pass the Federal Power Act of 1935 which regulated the powerful electric utilities and the development of a wholesale power market.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
The US consumed 3.9 trillion kilowatt hours (KWH) in 2019, with an average of 13,000 KWH per person.
21:08 - 23:47 (02:39)
Summary
The US consumed 3.9 trillion kilowatt hours (KWH) in 2019, with an average of 13,000 KWH per person. However, countries like Iceland and countries with extreme temperatures per person use a lot more electricity than the US does.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
The different types of generation plants that are used to create energy in the United States are discussed, including peaker plants, which burn diamonds upon start up, and how the people who manage the grid determine which generation plants to run.
23:47 - 30:28 (06:41)
Summary
The different types of generation plants that are used to create energy in the United States are discussed, including peaker plants, which burn diamonds upon start up, and how the people who manage the grid determine which generation plants to run.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
The relationship between voltage and current in power transmission is explained through an analogy of water pressure and flow.
30:28 - 35:03 (04:34)
Summary
The relationship between voltage and current in power transmission is explained through an analogy of water pressure and flow. The importance of keeping a high current of electricity to reduce resistance on transmission lines is also discussed.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
The podcast host tackles unusual questions to help us better understand our lives and realities.
35:03 - 39:52 (04:49)
Summary
The podcast host tackles unusual questions to help us better understand our lives and realities. In one episode, the guest speaks about public utility regulation in different states and how it affects power innovation.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
The independent energy suppliers in surrounding states were hesitant to sell electricity to Texas during the recent power outages as they were unsure they would be compensated.
39:52 - 45:49 (05:57)
Summary
The independent energy suppliers in surrounding states were hesitant to sell electricity to Texas during the recent power outages as they were unsure they would be compensated. Power pools, which allow utilities to buy and sell power to one another, have become more prevalent since the California energy crisis in the early 2000s.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
A teenager in Ohio noticed smoking outlets in his house and informed a tree cutting crew outside, but they ignored him.
45:49 - 49:41 (03:51)
Summary
A teenager in Ohio noticed smoking outlets in his house and informed a tree cutting crew outside, but they ignored him. Hours later, a power failure occurred due to a cascading effect, causing the power lines to sag and arc, creating a lightning-like effect.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
The recent Texas energy crisis caused by the severe winter storm, combined with a lack of precautionary measures such as insulated power lines, has led to an increase in energy costs and left many residents with sky-high electricity bills.
49:41 - 53:49 (04:07)
Summary
The recent Texas energy crisis caused by the severe winter storm, combined with a lack of precautionary measures such as insulated power lines, has led to an increase in energy costs and left many residents with sky-high electricity bills. Governor Abbott has intervened to prevent further financial burdens on Texas residents.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
A company has developed a tool that can power devices such as a ceiling fan, quad outlets, and a coffee maker by screwing it onto a log and hitting it with a heavy hammer- a new and unique way of generating electricity invented by a 12-year-old girl from New Zealand.
53:49 - 59:47 (05:58)
Summary
A company has developed a tool that can power devices such as a ceiling fan, quad outlets, and a coffee maker by screwing it onto a log and hitting it with a heavy hammer- a new and unique way of generating electricity invented by a 12-year-old girl from New Zealand.
EpisodeHow the Electrical Grid Works
PodcastStuff You Should Know
This podcast delves into the possibility of creating new senses for humans, and poses thought-provoking questions about our brains and experiences.
59:47 - 1:03:43 (03:55)
Summary
This podcast delves into the possibility of creating new senses for humans, and poses thought-provoking questions about our brains and experiences.