Electrical grid operator PJM ready for the heat of summer

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PJM meets electricity needs by procuring through its competitive markets, enough resources to satisfy peak demand plus required reserves — at the lowest reasonable cost. PJM works with its members to ensure that power flows where it is needed and holds resources. (Photo courtesy of PJM)

When summer temperatures start to reach the 80s, 90s — or even higher — residents and businesses expect their electricity to flow without interruption.

PJM Interconnection — the operator of the country’s largest electric grid — said Monday it has the resources available to meet anticipated peak summer demand and keep power flowing to the 65 million people it serves, writes Donna Rovins in The Times Herald.

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At PJM control centers, system operators use technology to monitor, control and direct the power grid 24/7 to balance supply and demand. The operators adjust the production of generating plants to changes in demand, and make sure that no transmission lines or facilities are overloaded. The system operators also watch for unusual conditions and react to them to protect the electricity supply.

“When the operators are directing the flow of energy, they are sending signals to direct generators up, down, on or off, to make sure that power is moving from the source directly to the end user customer and businesses,” said Chris Pilong, PJM director of dispatch, adding that PJM operators are prepared to expect the unexpected.

“They are trained and prepared for thousands of ‘what if’ scenarios. They are continuously monitoring the system and reacting if, and when a situation occurs,” Pilong added.

To read the complete story click here.

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