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Respect operating envelopes
Flexible generation differs in start time, minimum stable output, ramping and fuel or water constraints. Hydro has water opportunity cost; biomass has feedstock and sustainability constraints. A low marginal-cost asset may be unable to start in time.
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Working relationship
Minimum ramp time = required output change ÷ ramp rate
What to keep separate
Available nameplate capacity does not imply immediate deliverability.
Your task
Compare two plants for a five-minute response and a six-hour energy requirement.
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Key terms in plain English
- MW
- Megawatt: a measure of power, or how quickly energy is transferred. A plant's maximum MW is not its actual output in every interval.