Power Systems 101

Foundational concepts that underpin a working knowledge of conventional, transforming and future power systems.

Tariffs/Rates

Conventional pricing models that provide the basis how Customers are billed for their use of Electricity provided by the Power System in a manner designed

Topology

The interconnection pattern of nodes in a Transmission Network and Distribution Network, and includes the Generation Plant, Bulk Supply Points (BSP) and Connection Points for

Transmission Network

The High Voltage (HV) network that transports Power over long distances from large-scale Generation Plant to large industrial Customers and the Bulk Supply Points (BSP)

Utility

A generic term that may be used by Customers to describe one or all entities that constitute the Electricity supply chain, including Generators, Network Providers,

Visibility

The degree to which information on Energy Resource characteristics and operational information is available to the Market/System Operator (MSO), Distribution System Operator (DSO), and other

Volatility

The propensity of rapid and/or unpredictable change, especially in a manner that is unfavourable and difficult to manage.  Power Systems served by growing levels of

Voltage

The electrical force or electric potential between two points that gives rise to the flow of Electricity. Voltage is the ‘pressure’ that moves Power around