How do power grids actually work?

[erson]

I get the idea that power is generated by large power plants that send through various transformers until it gets to my house. What I don’t understand is how the power grid knows electricity is being used. When my solar panels send electricity back to the grid, where does it go? Do the power plants constantly adjust production based on momentary demand or is there a such thing as power storage for the grid?

[Charles_Murison · Accepted solution]

Hello @erson ,

This is a complex question that can vary depending on the region and regulations and a number of other factors. "is there a such thing as power storage for the grid?" Some grids are working on a form of energy storage other grids already have something. In Hydro electric locations for example, sometimes the grid will pump water back up the dam during times of lower energy costs to be able to collect the potential energy again at peak times. Other grids are starting to build battery storage facilities for renewable energy options like wind and solar which often cannot vary production to match demand. Some of these batteries can be massive weights that get lifted up, rotated or other, rather than a chemical battery.

Regards,

Charles