Meaning of Base Load and Peak Load Power Station
Q. State what do you mean by base load and peak load power station.
- Base load power station : A base load power station usually provides a continuous supply of electricity throughout the year with some minimum power generation requirement. Base load power plants will only be turned off during periodic maintenance, upgrading, overhaul or service. Examples of base load power plants are thermal power plant, nuclear power plant, geothermal power plant, tidal power plant, hydroelectric plant etc.
- Peak load power station : Peak load power plants generally run only when there is a high demand, known as peak demand for electricity. Because they supply power only occasionally, the power supplied commands a much higher price per kW than base load power.
Examples : Hydroelectric power plant, Gas turbine power plant, Diesel electric power plant.