Electricity is transported through wires that can be seen across the countryside. These wires transmit the high-voltage electrical energy to transformers in regional locations that lower the voltage so the energy can be used in homes.

Due to the resistance of the wires, about 10% of the energy is lost during transport as heat. The energy loss in trans-continental electricity transmission is minimized by using thick wires made of copper and metal alloys that have very low resistance.

In some cases, wind energy does not have to travel far to a location. Anyone can build and mount a windmill on their home, property or building. Windmills are even used on sailboats to generate electricity for lights and other machinery.