Definition
The standard unit of real (active) power in bulk electric transmission, equal to one million watts. Real power measured in MW represents the instantaneous rate at which useful work is performed — not the total energy consumed, which is measured in megawatt-hours (MWh). Generator output, load forecasts, transmission capacity, and wholesale energy market quantities are all expressed in MW or GW (gigawatts, equal to 1,000 MW). Real power is distinct from reactive power (MVAR) and apparent power (MVA); see Kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the relationship between power and energy.
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Topic Deck
Electrical Engineering Fundamentals
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Source
FERC Pro Forma OATT / LGIP