Grid Glossary

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Resilience

The ability of the grid to ride through extreme events, recover quickly, and support other critical systems (e.g., transportation, health care, public safety etc.).

Resource adequacy

An assessment of whether the current or projected resource mix is sufficient to meet capacity and energy needs for a particular grid. The resource mix includes all resources able to provide capacity and energy to the system. Adequacy assessments are used to identify potential shortfalls in the availability of resources across different time frames; from long-term planning (5 to 20+ years) to seasonal and day-ahead assessments.

RTO

 (see also: ISO) – A non-profit organization that manages the electricity transmission system in a specific region, ensuring reliable and efficient electricity delivery. RTOs operate the high-voltage electricity grid, facilitating the movement of power from generating plants to substations and ultimately to consumers. They also oversee competitive wholesale electricity markets.

Watts

Measure of the rate of energy transfer over a unit of time, with one watt equal to one joule (J) per second.

Wind power

A form of renewable energy that uses the kinetic energy of wind to generate electricity. It involves capturing the wind’s energy through turbines, which then convert this mechanical energy into electricity. Modern wind power generation primarily relies on wind turbines, often grouped into wind farms, connected to the electrical grid.

Winter peaking

The increase in energy demand during the winter months, usually due to heating needs. This can lead to higher energy prices and bills for a number of reasons, including: 

  • Strained energy grid: The high demand can strain the energy grid, which can cause utilities to work harder to meet the need.
  • Seasonal rate adjustments: Many energy providers adjust rates based on seasonal demand.
  • Increased use of lighting: Shorter and darker winter days can lead to greater use of in-home lighting.

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