ABSTRACT
The electric utility system is comprised of three major components: the generation system, the transmission system, and the distribution system. The generation system, where the electricity is produced, is comprised of power plants, also called generating units. Generation in the United States is produced at facilities categorized as conventional and renewable resources. Conventional resources are those in which the fuel is burned, and include coal, nuclear, natural gas, oil, and diesel power plants. Renewable resources are those in which the “fuel” consumed to produce electricity is replenished by nature or can be replenished by humankind. Generation resources in the United States are predominantly conventional resources, although renewable resources are in operation and providing more and more electricity every year.
