Definition
The kinetic energy stored in the rotating masses of synchronized generators and turbines connected to the AC grid, which resists sudden changes in system frequency following a generation–load imbalance. Synchronous inertia provides the first fraction-of-a-second frequency stabilization before governor response and ancillary services act — slowing frequency decline after a generator trip or accelerating recovery. As inverter-based wind, solar, and battery resources replace conventional synchronous machines, the grid has lost natural inertia, making explicit primary frequency response requirements (FERC Order 842) critical for reliable bulk power operations.
Topic Deck
Grid Operations
Source
FERC Pro Forma OATT / LGIP
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