What effect does increasing voltage have on power transmission efficiency?

Increasing voltage in power transmission typically increases efficiency over long distances because it reduces the current flowing through the transmission lines for a given power level, as power (P) is the product of voltage (V) and current (I). When voltage is increased, the current decreases, which leads to a reduction in resistive losses, which are proportional to the square of the current (I²R losses). This means that with higher voltage, less energy is lost as heat in the conductors, thus improving the overall transmission efficiency.

Higher voltage also allows for the use of thinner conductors, which can be more economical while maintaining the capacity to transmit the same amount of power. This is particularly advantageous in long-distance transmission, where maximizing efficiency is crucial to minimize energy losses and reduce costs. Hence, the statement that increasing voltage typically increases efficiency over long distances reflects a fundamental principle of electrical engineering in the context of power transmission.