Why does Europe use 220 volt electricity?

Answer 1

The nominal residential voltage in Europe is 230 V, not 220 V. Secondly, why not? The European system developed quite independently of the North American system, so why should the two systems share the same nominal voltage?

The higher voltage does have its advantages. For example, in the UK, socket outlets (receptacles) are rated at 13 A, compared to 15 A in North America. This means that appliances up to 3 kW can be used in a British residence, compared to just 1800 W in a North American residence. For example, a typical British kettle is rated at 3 kW, which means that it will boil much quicker than an American 1.5-kW kettle.

Some might argue that 230 V is more dangerous than 120 V, but this is misleading. For example, sockets in the UK are shuttered -preventing kids from poking anything into them, whereas North American receptacles are not. In that sense, a British residence is safer than a North American residence.

Answer 2

The standard voltage throughout Europe is 230 v. That voltage allows a reasonable amount of power to be distributed round a house while being safe provided the regulations are followed closely.

Answer 3

Europe uses 220 volt electricity for historical reasons, as different countries developed their own electrical standards before standardization efforts were made. The higher voltage is more efficient for long-distance transmission and helps reduce energy losses in the power grid.