ABSTRACT
The power sector has come a long way over the last century and has evolved from being DC systems to highly interconnected three-phase AC systems. The need of the hour is to develop high-intensity transmission corridor (MW per meter right of way) suitable for bulk power transfer over long distances in an environmental friendly manner. This is possible through upgrading/uprating the existing transmission system using technology suitable for high-capacity extra high voltage/ultra-high voltage (EHV/UHV) AC system and high voltage direct current (HVDC) system. Bulk power systems consist of a backbone of extra high-voltage transmission grid with generators pooling their generation into it, and the pooled power is withdrawn by loads at lower voltage levels. Considering the operational regime of the various Regional Grids, asynchronous connection between the Regional Grids was necessary to enable them to exchange large regulated quantum of power. Power generation consisted primarily of thermal power that used fossil fuels for steam generation and hydropower. With the passage of time, nuclear power generation was adopted for steam generation to meet the base load demand. The focus of the present-day generation of electricity has shifted use of efficient, sustainable and environment-friendly renewable generating sources. Using the renewable/nonrenewable sources of power which is being generated in a decentralized way closed to the load centers called distributed generation. Renewable energy sources like hydro, wind and solar has a major part to play in the transition to the low carbon economy and follows a paradigm somewhat different from conventional energy sources. Since the power generated from renewable sources is intermittent and of unpredictable nature, it has resulted in the creation of energy storage devices in order to maintain the energy balance within the renewable energy system. All these are being done only to attract new generation capacity and enhance per capita availability and sustainability of electricity as the tariff policy is under change. Different types of tariffs are also mentioned in the chapter.
