Knowledge Base
What is low-carbon power?
Low-carbon power is part of a sustainable energy policy and comes from technologies that produce electricity with significantly lower carbon dioxide emissions than those of fossil fuels. Low-carbon sources include wind, solar, hydroelectric, and nuclear power.
What is nuclear power?
Nuclear power is a method of generating zero-carbon energy. It uses heat from a nuclear core to make steam in order to turn turbines and produce electricity.
What is intermittent energy?
An intermittent energy source is a method of generating power that cannot ensure consistent and reliable electricity to match demand. The intermittency of these power sources can either be entirely predictable, such as tidal energy, or unpredictable, such as wind power. To deal with intermittency, electricity grid controllers must have base-load power sources available to fill in gaps when intermittent sources are not providing sufficient power to meet demand. Storing power for future use can also help; however, current storage technology has significant inefficiency challenges.
What is base-load power?
Base-load power is the minimum amount of constantly required electricity over a certain period to meet electricity demand. Base load power sources are those methods of generating electricity that can consistently and reliably ensure base-load power is met.