February 23, 2021, 1:00-5:00 p.m.

February 24, 2021, 1:00-5:00 p.m.

The purpose of the class is to explain how the electric power system works, how it is managed, and why. This class will review the technology, operation, and markets of a modern reliable power grid. Environmental issues and regulations that affect the electric power system will also be discussed.

In this class, you will experience lecture, interactive activities, and discussion resulting in a well-rounded understanding of Grid Fundamentals.

Class Topics

Electric Fundamentals

How does electricity work? This section gives a brief layman’s understanding of basic concepts, including:

• Voltage and current
• Power and energy
• Electromagnetics
• Circuit components
• Circuit analysis
• Alternating current

Regulation

This section covers the evolution of the electric power system, the history of regulation, and how compliance applies in the Western Interconnection.

• Public vs. private vs. municipal utilities
• Power cost: rates, tariffs
• Regulatory agencies
• Evolution of the North American electric system
• Compliance

The Interconnected Power System

How does the grid connect to deliver power from the generators to the customers?

Power transmission, transformers, and substation equipment.

Environment and the Grid

How do the environment and the grid get along? This section will look at the interaction between the two.

• Power generator emissions sources and impact
• Facility right-of-way and environment issues

Power System Operations

Operating the electric power system is a balance of generation and load, of buying and selling, and, at the same time, keeping it all at the correct frequency across the entire Western Interconnection. This section covers how this is all managed.

• Types of load
• Load characteristics
• Balancing Authority overview
• Frequency and energy balance
• System operators
• System restoration

Who Should Attend?

This class is designed for anyone new to the electric utility business, environmentalists, policymakers, legal personnel, managers/supervisors/executives, and anyone who is looking for a broader view of the grid.

Skill Level: New

Prerequisite: None

Instructors: Merrill Brimhall and Donovan Crane

Webinar: Pre-registration is required. After registering and before the Grid Fundamentals Class, you will receive an email that includes specific join/login information. You can use that information to get into the training session.