Terhelésváltást

Terhelésváltást, a Hungarian term, translates to "load shifting" or "load shedding" in English, and it refers to a strategy employed in electrical power systems to manage demand during periods of high stress. This typically occurs when the electricity demand significantly exceeds the available supply, threatening the stability and reliability of the grid. The primary goal of terhelésváltást is to prevent widespread blackouts by deliberately disconnecting or reducing the power supply to certain consumers or areas.

This process can be implemented through various mechanisms. It can be voluntary, where large industrial users agree in advance to reduce their consumption during peak times in exchange for financial incentives. More commonly, it is involuntary and controlled by the grid operator. In such cases, pre-determined criteria are used to select which loads to shed, often prioritizing critical services like hospitals and emergency responders. The disconnection can be temporary, lasting only until the demand decreases or supply increases.

The effectiveness of terhelésváltást lies in its ability to quickly rebalance the power system. By reducing the immediate demand, it allows generators to catch up and prevents cascading failures that could lead to a larger outage. While it can cause inconvenience to affected consumers, it is generally considered a necessary measure to maintain the overall integrity of the electricity network. The planning and implementation of terhelésváltást are crucial aspects of grid management, particularly in regions with high peak loads or limited generation capacity.