Frequency Regulation
The process of maintaining the electric grid at exactly 60 Hz (in North America) by continuously balancing supply and demand in real time.
Why It Matters
Batteries are excellent at frequency regulation (millisecond response vs. minutes for gas turbines). Grid-scale batteries providing this service help keep electricity reliable for everyone.
Related Topics
Related Terms
Demand Response
A program where utilities pay customers to reduce electricity usage during peak demand events, often by cycling AC units, adjusting thermostats, or discharging batteries to the grid.
Duck Curve
A graph of net electricity demand that shows a deep midday dip (from solar overproduction) and a steep evening ramp (as solar drops off and demand peaks), shaped like a duck.
Grid Parity
The point at which the cost of solar electricity equals or falls below the cost of grid-purchased electricity, making solar economically competitive without subsidies.