Load Management
What it is
Load management relates to altering the real or apparent electricity pattern use in order to conserve resources, both fuel and capital, in the production and distribution of electrical energy. It is achieved through power flow control in the electric system at the generating end (supply management) or the customer end (use management).
- Use Management – operates at the customer end, since the circuit has been uncontrolled resulting in large peaks and valleys in power demand which the generating units must follow, to control the power demand directly.
- Supply Management – the electric power system has been designed and operated to respond to the customers’ instantaneous demands for electric power and the control problem has been one of load-following by generating units. Large swings at the primary generating plants prompted some utilities to add energy storage using large pumped hydro installations.
The remainder of the power system must continue to respond to the swings in demand.
Why
1. the potential to conserve energy and capital in both production and distribution
2. to shift a significant amount of fuel base from oil and natural gas to coal, nuclear, or renewable sources
3. stabilize the cost of electricity