Frequency regulation

Frequency regulation is the continual adjustment of electricity generation, storage, or demand to balance supply and consumption and keep grid frequency near its target.

Electric grid frequency: The oscillation rate of alternating current in an electric power system, measured in hertz. Its deviation from the target signals an imbalance between generation and consumption.
Regulation reserve: Generating or consuming capacity held available for rapid adjustments that balance short-term grid fluctuations. It is the deployable capability operators call on for regulation.
Load following: The adjustment of generation to track predictable changes in electricity demand over minutes to hours. Load following addresses broader trends, while regulation corrects shorter-term deviations.
Under-frequency load shedding: An automatic protection scheme that disconnects selected loads when grid frequency falls too low. It is a last-resort safeguard when balancing resources cannot arrest a decline.
Automatic generation control: A control system that adjusts generating units to maintain scheduled power exchanges and system frequency. It coordinates generator output to correct ongoing frequency and interchange errors.
Battery energy storage: Systems that store electricity chemically and return it to the grid when needed. Batteries can change power output quickly and accurately for frequency control.
Operating reserve: Available generation or demand capability held to respond to unexpected imbalances or outages. Regulation is a fast, continuously used part of the larger reserve portfolio.
Grid stability: The ability of an electric power system to maintain or restore acceptable operating conditions after disturbances. Effective regulation supports stable operation but does not address every form of instability.
Frequency response: The change in power output or consumption following a change in grid frequency. Fast frequency response arrests deviations before slower regulation takes effect.
Demand response: Changes in electricity consumption made in response to grid conditions or market signals. Adjustable loads can provide balancing power without increasing generation.

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