What determines the effectiveness of curtailing power flows via Transmission Loading Relief?

The effectiveness of curtailing power flows via Transmission Loading Relief (TLR) is primarily determined by Power Transfer Distribution Factors (PTDF). PTDF provides a measure of how much the flow of power on a transmission line changes in response to changes in generation or load at various locations within the power system.

When implementing TLR, operators need to understand the relationship between the loads, generation, and how these affect the overall flow across the transmission grid. PTDF calculations help determine the most efficient way to curtail generation or reduce load in order to alleviate congestion and maintain system reliability. This is because PTDF quantifies the impact of specific actions on the power system, enabling operators to make informed decisions that lead to effective power flow management.

Other factors, such as generator availability, operational budgets, and real-time weather conditions, play roles in the broader context of power system management, but they do not directly determine the effectiveness of TLR in the same way that PTDF does. While generator availability can influence generation levels and operational budgets may affect decision-making, neither is as critical to the immediate calculations and decisions involved in executing TLR actions effectively. Additionally, real-time weather conditions can affect demand or the efficiency of generation but are separate from the foundational calculations