Ensuring power-system stability

Examines reliability analysis in utility system analysis with regard to thermal, voltage, and stability limits and properties that must be dealt with during all stages--from planning through operation of the grid. Explains that the need to cut down on the use of oil and gas for electric power production means that electricity must be carried over longer distances from remote baseload power plants, and this produces several system operating problems, one of which is stability. Discusses computer programs available which deal with specific stability problems. Points out that, leaving aside social costs of a major blackout, revenue losses and restoration costs alone may easily run a utility many times more than the expense of EPRI's entire research effort in this area. Concludes that the near-term goal of EPRI's Power System Planning and Operations Program is to provide the best possible tools so that electric utility planners and operators can understand and work within these limits.