Electrical energy
Electrical energy is the term given to energy that has been converted from electric potential energy. This electric potential energy has usually been in turn converted from another source of energy, through a process known as generation.
Electrical energy is supplied by a voltage (or electrical potential) delivered via an electric current.
Electrical power is defined as the rate at which electrical energy is transferred via an electrical circuit over a given amount of time. It is therefore the rate of ‘doing work’. The SI unit of electrical power is the watt, which equates to an energy transfer rate of 1 joule per second.
In the context of buildings, electrical energy is typically converted into other forms of energy, to serve useful purposes such as heating, lighting, motion or other forms of electrical power conversion.
Electrical energy for use in buildings is often supplied via a grid connection, and typically originates at a power station, where it has been generated by electro-mechanical generators. Electrical energy can by generated by many means, such as chemical combustion, nuclear fission, or renewable means such as flowing water, wind, geothermal heat and solar voltaic.
Equally, electrical energy may be generated at the building itself, typically either via solar voltaic, localised electromechanical generators or other renewable sources. Such energy may be used locally within the building or may be exported back into the grid for use by other consumers. Where this latter facility exists, the building and its system are referred to as a ‘prosumer’ – i.e. a simultaneous producer and consumer of electrical energy.
--ECA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Ampere.
- Articles about electricity.
- BEAMA.
- Consumer electronics.
- Consumer units.
- ECA articles.
- ECA.
- Electric lock.
- Electric motor.
- Electrical appliance.
- Electrical consumption.
- Electrical equipment.
- Electrical installation.
- Electrical power.
- Electrical safety.
- Electrician.
- Electricity bill.
- Electricity supply.
- Glossary of electrical terms.
- IET announces release of 18th Edition Amendment 2.
- Voltage.
- Watt.
Featured articles and news
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.
Preserving, waterproofing and decorating buildings.
Many resources for visitors aswell as new features for members.
Using technology to empower communities
The Community data platform; capturing the DNA of a place and fostering participation, for better design.
Heat pump and wind turbine sound calculations for PDRs
MCS publish updated sound calculation standards for permitted development installations.
Homes England creates largest housing-led site in the North
Successful, 34 hectare land acquisition with the residential allocation now completed.
Scottish apprenticeship training proposals
General support although better accountability and transparency is sought.
The history of building regulations
A story of belated action in response to crisis.
Moisture, fire safety and emerging trends in living walls
How wet is your wall?
Current policy explained and newly published consultation by the UK and Welsh Governments.
British architecture 1919–39. Book review.
Conservation of listed prefabs in Moseley.
Energy industry calls for urgent reform.