History of a single-phase high-voltage distribution system

Abstract

For over 70 years, a considerable part of Southport received an electricity supply through a single-phase high-voltage distribution network. This was developed from a system established in 1894 when the municipal authority pioneered one of the earliest generating stations to operate at 50 Hz. Designs introduced for distribution pillars used in conjunction with transformers located in pavement pits formed the basis of the supply system. This, developed to meet the increasing demand for electricity, became one of the most extensive of its kind in Britain, and the generating plant progressed from rope drive to turbo alternators. Street lighting employing high-voltage direct current derived from synchronous rectifiers remained in use for several years. When single-phase generation generation ceased in 1921, single-phase high-voltage distribution was maintained and extended for a further 45 years, until its final displacement following a programme of voltage standardisation initiated by the nationalised electricity supply industry. >