The demand for electrical power rises and falls throughout a typical day based on how we use our electricity. With summer months upon us, we typically increase our “peaking” usage.
Peaking plants are a category of power plants that operate primarily during times when the demand for power is at its peak. Imagine a 90 degree summer day when your airconditioning is running constantly. This causes electricity usage to reach its highest levels.
Peaking plants are often powered by natural gas, but they can also be powered by water at hydroelectric dams or by fuel oil. Peaking plants can be turned on quickly to begin generating additional electricity to satisfy the rapidly increasing demand for power on hot summer days, and can be turned off quickly as demand lowers in the evening.
