On the electricity grid, balance refers to the continuous equilibrium between total electricity generation and total consumption. This balance is essential for the stability and reliability of the grid. Without it, there can be too much or too little electricity locally, which affects voltage and frequency. Fluctuations in these values can cause wear or even damage to electrical equipment and installations.
Electricity generation and consumption are largely planned far in advance, based on historical data and forecasts. Since not everything can be predicted, these plans sometimes need to be adjusted. Any adjustments must always take the system balance into account.
Balance plays a key role in addressing congestion situations. Suppose less electricity is transported into a congested area to alleviate local grid stress. This means there is surplus electricity elsewhere — leading to a potential imbalance. To compensate, electricity generation must be reduced, or consumption increased, outside the congestion area.
Via GOPACS, congestion situations on the intraday market are resolved using redispatch, without disrupting the overall grid balance. This is done by simultaneously executing two opposite actions:
These combined actions relieve local grid congestion while keeping the national energy system in balance.
By trading in a balance-neutral way through GOPACS, market participants can contribute to relieving congestion while helping to maintain the integrity and stability of the electricity system.
