To increase reliability of the system the Utility Company X

To increase reliability of the system the Utility Company “X,” who owns and operates the system described in Problem 2, plans to expand the transmission line connected to Bus 4 and also add another generation unit. Who is responsible to build and maintain such transmission expansion? Who approves it?

Solution

Bulk electric power system planning involves both generation (or resource planning), as well as transmission planning, and there usually exist complex interdependencies between the two. Efforts at planning one of them without consideration of the plans for the other will typically result in less desirable plans in terms of reliability or in terms of economics, or in terms of both. 2. Bulk electric power system planning often involves acquisition of new land, either for power plants of for transmission right-of-way. This in itself is a socially complex issue that involves many constituencies, most of whom have at best a layman’s understanding of electric power engineering and economics. Such people must be contacted, educated about the needs, and given time to respond with concerns. The acronym “NIMBY,” which means “Not In My Back Yard” was coined to reflect a common position taken by many people and communities when confronted with the possibility of a new power plant or transmission line located nearby their living or working location. There are many reasons for this position, but possibly the most common are aesthetic, environmental, and health.