Grid stability

The transmission system is vital to the security of power supply, with measures including flexibility. Here, a transmission system operator (TSO) plays a key role. Its responsibilities include a secure supply of electricity in its control area, the borders of which usually coincide with national borders. Within its control area, the TSO is in charge of approving generation and consumption schedules, balancing the system, and procuring ancillary services. A TSO also operates and maintains the high-voltage transmission network.

Power quality should be high

One of the main requirements in the power system, in addition to security of supply, is that consumers receive high-quality power. This implies the right voltage and frequency (50 Hz), a low level of the so-called higher harmonic components, and no interruptions in supply.

Consumers in Europe are tailored to a power system that operates at a frequency of 50 Hz. Even a moderate variation in frequency could put at risk the operation of the electrical devices we use at home or in industrial processes. Overvoltage or overcurrent can cause damage to insulation in electrical devices or to their electronic components.