Distribution lines operate at lower voltages (e.g., 4 kV to 36 kV) for safety and practical reasons. The power needs to be stepped down at a substation before it is safe for residential and commercial use. Using lower voltages allows for more manageable infrastructure and reduces the risk of dangerous electrical arcs or shocks in populated areas. The final voltage is further reduced by a transformer right outside your home or business to a usable level (e.g., 120V/240V).