Power Generation/Variable Load/Part2

Objectives of a Power station:

The power station is constructed, comissioned and operated to supply required power to consumers with generators running at rated capacity for maximum efficiency.

we saw in lesson one that the fundamental problem in generation, transmission and distribution of electrical energy is the fact that electrical energy can not be stored. It must be generated, transmitted and distributed as and when needed.

This lesson looks at problems associated with variable loads on power stations, and discusses the complexities met in deciding the make, size and capacity of Generators (Generating units) that must be installed in a power plant to successfully meet these varying energy demands on a day to day basis.

Variable load:

The load on a power station varies from time to time due to uncertain demands of consumers. Energy demand of one consumer at any given time is distinct/differs from the energy demand of another consumer. This results in the total demand on the power station to vary over a given period of time and may necesitate the following:


 * Additional equipment/Generating units to meet demand


 * Increase in production cost to recuperate use of more material/equipment

In order to study the pattern and effect of the varying load, station engineers use load curves.