However, before we move on to distinguishing between these concepts, a simplified diagram illustrating how the electricity system works is provided below.
What is an electricity distribution network?
Anyone who has ever signed a contract for the supply of electricity to their house or flat will have come across the term ‘energy distribution’. But what exactly is it?
Electricity distribution takes place via the distribution network. It involves the transmission of electricity through the distribution network and high, medium and low-voltage electrical equipment in order to supply it to end users – that is, us – households, businesses and institutions. In short, the distribution network is responsible for distributing energy among consumers.
Before energy reaches our homes, it flows through the distribution network – the final stage of the power system chain.
Energy distribution is handled by distributors, i.e. Distribution System Operators, abbreviated as ‘DSOs’. Their main responsibilities include the distribution of electricity, as well as the maintenance, operation, repair, expansion and modernisation of the power grid, and ensuring the ongoing and long-term operational safety of the system. A different DSO is responsible for each region of the country, selected by the President of the Energy Regulatory Office. Currently, there are five entities holding DSO status:
- ENERGA-Operator S.A.
- ENEA Operator Sp. z o.o.
- Stoen Operator Sp. z o.o.
- TAURON Dystrybucja S.A.
- PGE DYSTRYBUCJA S.A.
If you wish to choose an energy supplier, you should first consult the list of entities with which the relevant DSO has a contract for the provision of electricity distribution services. This information can be obtained from the Energy Regulatory Office’s website. Importantly, whilst you are free to choose your energy supplier, you cannot change your Distribution System Operator.
What is the transmission network?
The transmission network is a tool used to transport large amounts of electricity via a high-voltage transmission network from generators to distributors over significant distances. So what distinguishes the transmission network from the distribution network, apart from its purpose, is the transport of energy over longer distances at higher voltages.
The Polish electricity system is part of the European electricity system. The transmission network in Poland belongs to Polskie Sieci Elektroenergetyczne (PSE), and the Transmission System Operator (TSO) is responsible for its management. Thus, there is only one dedicated entity for the electricity transmission system here.
According to the statutory definition, the transmission system operator is an energy company engaged in the transmission of electricity, responsible for network operations within the electricity transmission system, the day-to-day and long-term operational security of that system, the operation, maintenance, repairs and necessary expansion of the transmission network, including interconnections with other electricity systems.
From the above, one can therefore deduce the fundamental difference in the responsibilities of TSOs and DSOs, and thus the difference between the distribution and transmission networks.
- The distribution of electricity aims to distribute (divert) this energy in order to deliver it to end users;
- Electricity transmission, on the other hand, is aimed at transporting electricity over long distances at high voltage, connecting power stations with distribution points.
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