![]() Energy storage systems/facilities for electricity generation, including hydroelectric pumped storage, solar-thermal storage, batteries, flywheels, and compressed air systems.When these generators are operating, they tend to reduce the amount of electricity required from other generators to supply the electric power grid. Intermittent renewable resource generators powered by wind and solar energy that generate electricity only when these resources are available (i.e., when it's windy or sunny).Natural gas-fired combined cycle units, which currently provide more generation than any other technology, generally operate as intermediate sources.Īdditional categories of electricity generators include: Many energy sources and technologies are used in intermediate operation. The demand profile varies over time and intermediate sources are in general technically and economically suited for following changes in load. Intermediate load generating units comprise the largest generating sector and provide load responsive operation between base load and peaking service.In some cases, pumped storage hydropower and conventional hydropower units also support grid operations by providing power during periods of peak demand. In general, these generators are relatively inefficient and are costly to operate, but provide high- value service during peak demand periods. These so-called peaking units are generally natural gas or petroleum fueled generators. Peak load generating units help to meet electricity demand when demand is at its highest, or peak, such as in late afternoon and as when electricity use for air conditioning and heating increases during hot weather and cold weather respectively. ![]() Many of the large hydro facilities, several coal plants, and an increasing number of natural gas-fired generators, particularly those in combined power applications, also supply base load power. Geothermal and biomass units are also often operated in base load because of their low fuel costs. Nuclear power plants generally operate as base load service, because of their low fuel costs and the technical limitations on load responsive operation. A base load generating unit runs continuously, producing electricity at a nearly constant rate throughout most of the day.
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