During a frequency drop, how does a Balancing Authority typically react?

A Balancing Authority reacts to a frequency drop by contributing megawatts (MW) for frequency support, which is the correct response in this scenario. The primary role of a Balancing Authority is to maintain grid stability by balancing the electricity supply and demand in real-time. When there is a frequency drop, typically indicating that electricity demand exceeds generation, the Balancing Authority will engage generation resources to increase output or utilize frequency-responsive resources, such as battery storage or demand response initiatives that can quickly ramp up power contributions to stabilize the frequency.

This action helps to restore the system frequency to its nominal value (often 60 Hz in North America) and prevent system instability, which can lead to grid failures or blackouts. By contributing additional MWs to the grid, the Balancing Authority ensures that there is enough supply to meet demand, thereby supporting the overall reliability of the power system during stressful operational conditions.