Electricity Generation and Distribution Flashcards
6 cards from real Energy and Utilities practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Electricity Generation and Distribution flashcards as text
What is the primary fuel source for the largest share of US electricity generation as of recent years?
Answer: Natural gas
Natural gas has surpassed coal to become the leading fuel source for US electricity generation, accounting for roughly 40% of the total.
What is 'islanding' in electrical grid terminology?
Answer: A section of the grid operating independently from the main grid
Islanding occurs when a portion of the grid continues to operate autonomously after becoming disconnected from the main grid.
Which metric measures the ratio of actual electricity output to maximum possible output over a time period?
Answer: Capacity factor
Capacity factor is the ratio of actual electricity generated to the maximum that could have been produced at full capacity continuously.
What is the purpose of reactive power in an AC power system?
Answer: To maintain voltage levels and support inductive/capacitive loads
Reactive power supports the magnetic and electric fields needed by motors, transformers, and capacitors to maintain system voltage stability.
What does SCADA stand for in utility operations?
Answer: Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition
SCADA systems allow utility operators to remotely monitor and control grid equipment in real time.
What is 'load shedding' in electric utility operations?
Answer: Deliberately cutting power to some customers to prevent total grid collapse
Load shedding is a controlled, rotational disconnection of customer blocks to balance supply and demand during grid emergencies.