This instructor-led training (ILT) provides a foundational understanding of power system production and transmission, covering key principles of generation, frequency, voltage, and system balancing. Participants will explore the operating characteristics of different generator types, governing principles, and essential concepts in maintaining grid stability.

The course uses a combination of PowerPoint presentations, interactive discussions, and hands-on simulations to reinforce learning.

Topics include:

• Principles of power generation and different generator types
• Generator operating characteristics and governing principles
• Fundamentals of frequency, voltage, and balancing concepts
• Practical applications of NERC Standards BAL-001, BAL-002, BAL-003, VAR-001, VAR-002, and TOP-001

Participants will also have the opportunity to apply these concepts through guided simulations and Q&A sessions, enhancing their understanding of how power systems operate within the regulatory framework.

Learning objectives:

• Describe how an AC voltage can be generated using a coil of wire and the pole faces of a permanent magnet
• State the function of each major component of a power generation system: including, steam generator, prime mover, control valve, condenser, feed pump, generator rotor, stator, field, exciter, step-up transformer
• Explain why a power system needs both active power (watts) and reactive power (VARs)
• Identify voltage, current, and power waveforms for resistive, inductive, and capacitive circuits
• Explain the significance of power factor and the power triangle
• Identify why generators must ‘move’ in response to system conditions, such as load following and frequency regulation during normal and emergency condition
• Compare the major features and response rates of generators and their affect in normal and emergency planning
• State reasons why generating units must be de-rated under some circumstances
• Describe the function and operation of the turbine governor in load and frequency control on the power system during normal and emergency conditions
• Describe the function and operation of the generator excitation system in voltage and VAR control on the power system during normal and emergency conditions.
• Describe the function of a power substation
• List common substation voltage levels and types of substation configurations
• Recall the purpose and basic operating characteristics of major equipment in power substation: circuit breakers, circuit switches, disconnects, fuses, protective relays, series capacitors, series reactors, shunt capacitors, shunt reactors, static VAR compensators, synchronous condensers, surge arresters, transformers, transmission lines