Nr507 energy exam 1

Nr507 energy exam 1 How in most cases is energy produced? Something spinning a turbine connected to a generator creating electricity what is the difference between AC and DC Pulses of electricity (AC) vs constant stream (DC) who was the "champion" of AC AC: Nicola Tesla + Westinghouse who was the "champion" of DC DC: Thomas Edison (JP Morgan + Vanderbilt) In the early stages why did AC win out in the current wars DC couldn't be transmitted long distances whereas AC could What was the early use of electricity that enhanced economic development? Electricity could be used for manufacturing, lighting inside, and many other processes that used machinery. This made everything go faster since it was getting automated. describe how the expansion of the electric grid replaced other old technologies and how these changes resulted in such advances in our economic activity energy systems were small and localized. As the electricity system grew, the advantages of AC allowed utility companies to build grids over larger areas, creating economies of scale. To stabilize the business environment, the utilities sought a "regulatory compact" granting them monopoly status from state governments, and placing limits on how rates would be set for customers. Understand the basic path for our energy system Our nation's electricity grid consists of four major components: Individual generators, Transmission lines, Distribution, Consumer use or "load". Why we tended toward monopolies? Monopolies made managing everything easy because one entity managed everything. What are some concerns about monopolies? They could price gouge people, not innovate or provide better infrastructure. What is the Regulatory Compact? FERC grants utilities a protected monopoly for sale and distribution of electricity to customers in a defined territory. In return the utility commits to meet full demand at a calculated price to cover operating costs and get a reasonable return on investment in capital. What was the impact of the energy crisis on our grid and approach to utilities and regulation? Rise in inflation and interest rates. Led to FERC 888 and smaller generation allowed to use transmission lines, instead of large vertically integrated monopolies doing all 3, G, T, D. how are rates are set and who oversees this process. The rates are determined through a regulatory process that is overseen by a Public Service Commission. In addition, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) oversees the wholesale electricity market along with the interstate transmission of electricity.