Professional Answer: Substations are categorized based on their function and location. The main types include:

• Step-Up Substations: Located near power plants, these substations increase voltage for long-distance transmission, which minimizes energy loss.

• Step-Down Substations: These facilities reduce high-voltage electricity to lower levels suitable for local distribution.

• Distribution Substations: Positioned closer to end-users, these substations further lower the voltage for direct use by homes and businesses.

• Switching Substations: These substations do not change voltage but are essential for rerouting power during maintenance or in case of a fault, thus ensuring continuity of service.