Sample interview questions: Can you explain the role of hydroelectric power plants in balancing the electrical grid?
Sample answer:
Hydroelectric power plants play a crucial role in balancing the electrical grid by providing several key benefits:
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Flexible Generation: Hydroelectric plants have the inherent ability to quickly adjust their power output within a matter of seconds or minutes. This flexibility allows grid operators to rapidly respond to changes in electricity demand, such as sudden surges or decreases in consumption. Hydroelectric plants can be ramped up or down to match the fluctuating demand by adjusting the amount of water flowing through the turbines.
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Energy Storage Capacity: Hydroelectric reservoirs serve as energy storage reservoirs, providing the potential to release water when demand exceeds supply. This energy storage capability helps to balance the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which are subject to weather fluctuations. Hydroelectric plants can generate electricity during periods of high demand, even when these renewable sources are not producing sufficient power.
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Frequency Regulation: Hydroelectric plants can provide frequency regulation services to the electrical grid. They can rapidly increase or decrease their generation output to help maintain the grid’s frequency at a stable 60 Hz. This helps to ensure the smooth and reliable operation of electr… Read full answer
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