Overview of Components and Operations of the North American Power Grid

Flashcards covering the key components, structures, operations, and regulations of the North American Power Grid.

What are generating stations, and what types of energy do they convert into electricity?

They convert various forms of energy, including nuclear, hydroelectric, natural gas, coal, wind, and solar, into electricity.

What is the voltage range for long distance transmission lines in the North American power grid?

Long distance transmission lines operate at Extra-High Voltage levels, typically ranging from 345 kV to 765 kV AC, and even higher in some High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) applications.

What is the primary purpose of the bulk power transmission network?

It connects generation resources to major load centers and regional substations, enabling interregional energy trading and providing grid redundancy.

What components are typically found in a distribution network?

Distribution substations, distribution transformers, feeders, reclosers, fuses, and capacitor banks for voltage control.

How do long distance transmission lines minimize losses during electricity transport?

By operating at high voltages, long distance transmission lines minimize I²R losses.

What is the purpose of Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems?

SCADA systems monitor transmission lines in real-time to ensure operational integrity and safety.

What is the voltage range for medium voltage lines in the distribution network?

Medium-voltage lines range from 1 kV to 69 kV.

What is the primary function of transformers in substations?

Transformers step up the voltage for efficient transmission and step it down for safe distribution.

What does the N-1 reliability criterion ensure in power systems?

It ensures that the grid continues operating normally even if one major component fails.

What is the consequence of congestion in the power grid?

It can lead to inadequate transmission capacity, forcing the system to use suboptimal generation resources.

What does voltage control involve in maintaining system reliability?

It involves adjusting transformer tap changers, reactive power support, and excitation systems to keep voltage within limits.

What are the core principles of maintaining supply-demand balance in power systems?

Electricity must be consumed as it is generated, and total generation plus imports must equal total load plus exports.

How do AWS and PMUs contribute to grid monitoring?

They provide real-time data to assess grid stability and support coordinated actions across the grid.

What are the primary causes of angular instability in power systems?

Sudden disturbances such as line trips, generator failures, or rapid load changes leading to a loss of synchrony among generators.

What is blackstart capability in power systems?

The ability to restore power to the electrical grid after a blackout without relying on an external power supply.

What is meant by 'electricity cannot be easily stored at scale'?

Electricity must be used immediately upon generation, making it crucial to maintain real-time balance between supply and demand.

How can voltage issues arise in power systems?

From heavy loads or inadequate reactive power support, leading to voltage drops.

What measures are taken to enhance grid resilience against high-impact events?

Grid resilience involves redundancy, contingency planning, and coordination among utilities and emergency services to manage risks.

What are the limitations of the power grid?

Power generation capacity and transportation capacity