Load Dispatch Center | Types, Function, and Objective

Introduction

All power plants are linked through a grid in an interconnected power system. The Load Dispatch Centre (LDC) manages these plants to ensure efficient operation. It coordinates, plans, controls, and monitors electricity generation and demand, connecting power generation, transmission, and distribution to meet consumers’ needs.

Load Dispatch Center (LDC)

The Load Dispatch Center (LDC) is essential in managing power systems, especially with the restructuring and deregulation of the electricity market. It coordinates electricity generation, transmission, and distribution to ensure a stable and efficient power supply. In a competitive market, various producers and distributors generate and sell electricity.

The LDC oversees grid operations, schedules electricity generation, and ensures regulations are followed. It uses advanced technology like SCADA to monitor and control the grid, balancing supply and demand, preventing blackouts, and restoring power quickly after disruptions. The LDC helps maintain a reliable and cost-effective electricity supply for consumers.

Types of Load Dispatch Center

Types of Load Dispatch Centers (LDC) include:

1. National Load Dispatch Center (NLDC): Manages the overall grid operations at a national level, coordinating between regional centers.
2. Regional Load Dispatch Center (RLDC): Oversees grid operations within a specific region, ensuring balance and stability.
3. State Load Dispatch Center (SLDC): Manages grid operations within a state, coordinating with regional and national centers.
4. Area Load Dispatch Center (ALDC): Handles local grid operations within a smaller area or utility service zone.

Function of Load Dispatch Centre

1. Process data and conduct system studies.
2. Forecast load for workdays and holidays and analyze system behavior.
3. Check station outage at 6 AM daily to assess generation availability.
4. Maintain supply quality with improved voltage regulation.
5. Schedule loads and ensure economical operation.
6. Integrate with regional load dispatch centers.
7. Coordinate with neighboring grids.
8. Maintain grid discipline.
9. Ensure system security, and manage SCADA and communication.
10. Continuously record frequency.
11. Monitor and operate under-frequency relays.
12. Record tie flows every half hour.
13. Record transmission line tripping.

Equipment used in the Load Dispatch Centre

• Computer system
• Control desk
• Annunciation panels
• Mimic diagram
• Communication
• Telemetry

Other equipment used in the LDC includes:

• Diesel generator set
• Heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system
• DC battery room
• Harmonic-free AC supply
• UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)

Objective of Load Dispatch Centre

1. Ensures system security and stability.
2. Facilitates islanding operations.
3. Optimizes resource use.
4. Forecasts loads and estimates demand.
5. Maintains power quality in the regional grid.
6. Regulates system frequency.
7. Restores system quickly after disturbances.
8. Ensures reliable transmission system operation.
9. Matches power generation with demand.
10. Manages communication and SCADA systems.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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