Dispatchable generation

Dispatchable generation is electricity production that operators can increase or decrease on demand within a plant’s operating limits. Its output can be scheduled to match grid conditions.

Power plant: An industrial facility that converts energy from a fuel or other source into electricity. Dispatchable generation describes how the output of these facilities can be controlled.
Combined-cycle power plant: A power plant that combines gas-turbine and steam-turbine cycles to generate electricity efficiently. It is a common dispatchable generator, though its response is slower than a simple-cycle gas turbine’s.
Variable renewable energy: Electricity from renewable sources whose output varies with weather and is not directly controlled by operators. Wind and solar output depends on weather, unlike a dispatchable unit’s controllable output.
Electricity grid: The interconnected network of generators, transmission lines, distribution systems, and users that delivers electricity. Dispatchable generation supports the grid by matching controlled supply to changing conditions.
Load following: The adjustment of generation to track changing electricity demand over time. It is the routine operating task that dispatchable units perform.
Hydroelectricity: Electricity generated by converting the energy of flowing or stored water. Reservoir hydro plants can change output quickly by controlling water flow.
Intermittency: Variability in an energy source’s availability, especially when it depends on changing weather or natural conditions. Intermittency describes a supply limitation that dispatchability can help balance.
Grid stability: The ability of an electric power system to maintain or regain a balanced operating state after disturbances. Dispatchable generators can support frequency and voltage when configured to provide those services.
Ramp rate: The speed at which a generator can change its power output. Ramp rate limits how quickly dispatchable output can respond.
Demand response: Changes in electricity use made in response to grid conditions, prices, or operator requests. It can balance the grid like generation, but changes consumption rather than producing power.

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