What does central dispatch by a system operator imply for a generating plant?

Central dispatch by a system operator refers to the coordinated management of power generation to meet the demands of the electrical grid. This implies that the operations of a generating plant are not independent but rather closely aligned with the overall grid requirements. The system operator monitors real-time demand and generation across the grid and directs the generating plants to adjust their output accordingly.

Under central dispatch, whether a plant increases or decreases its generation can be influenced by factors such as current electricity demand, operational efficiency, and system reliability. This ensures that the grid remains balanced, providing a steady supply of electricity while optimizing the use of resources.

This process allows for a more efficient operation, as generating plants can be directed to produce power when it is most needed, thus contributing to stability and reliability in the power supply. Understanding this relationship between central dispatch and generating plant operations is crucial for effective energy management and operational planning within electric utilities.