Definition
An electric power system or combination of electric power systems to which a common automatic generation control (AGC) scheme is applied in order to: (1) match the power output of generators within the system with load at all times; (2) maintain scheduled interchange with other Control Areas; (3) maintain system frequency within reasonable limits; and (4) provide sufficient generating capacity to maintain operating reserves. Each Control Area — now often called a Balancing Authority Area — is independently responsible for maintaining its own second-by-second energy balance. The load in a Control Area is the aggregate power and energy requirements of all customers and devices within its metered boundaries that generation must continuously match. Under the OATT, the Control Area is the foundational operational unit — ancillary services obligations (Regulation, Energy Imbalance, Spinning Reserve, etc.) attach specifically to customers serving load within the Transmission Provider's Control Area.
Topic Deck
Grid Operations
Source
FERC Pro Forma OATT / LGIP
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