What is the purpose of transformers for utility companies in power transmission?

Transformers serve a crucial role in the power transmission systems of utility companies by stepping up voltages and reducing current. This process is essential for efficient long-distance electricity transmission.

When electricity is transmitted over long distances, higher voltages are used to minimize energy losses that occur due to resistance in the transmission lines. By increasing the voltage using transformers, the current can be reduced. This reduction in current leads to less heat generated in the conductors, resulting in lower energy losses during transmission.

Thus, the primary function of transformers in this context is to facilitate the efficient delivery of electricity from power plants to consumers by allowing power to be transmitted at high voltages and low currents, which significantly enhances the overall efficiency of the electrical grid.

Other options like increasing current, converting AC to DC, or signal type conversion do not align with the fundamental operation and purpose of transformers in power transmission. Thus, option C identifies the correct role of transformers in utility power transmission systems.