A measure of how efficiently electrical power is being used. It shows how much of the total power flowing in a circuit is actually doing useful work (active power) versus being ”wasted” as reactive power. A power factor closer to 1 means higher efficiency and fewer losses.

Sometimes also called a Public Service Commission (PSC), is a state-level governmental agency that regulates utilities like electricity, gas, and water. PUCs ensure that these essential services are provided fairly, reliably, and at reasonable prices, often by overseeing monopolies and protecting consumers.

(see: Interconnection Queue)

A type of power station in which the heat energy generated from various fuel sources (e.g., coal, natural gas, nuclear fuel, etc.) is converted to electrical energy.

The maximum amount of electrical power that can be reliably moved from one geographic region of the power grid to another, essentially indicating the ability of the transmission lines connecting those regions to transport electricity between them without causing instability or exceeding safety limits. It’s a crucial concept for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the power system, particularly in the context of electricity markets and grid planning.

Equipment used to increase and decrease voltages at grid interfaces.

The process (and infrastructure) of moving large amounts of electrical power over long distances from where it is generated, like a power plant, to substations closer to consumers.