The term Load shedding refers to the method of balancing the electric demand and supply within an area. When the demand for electricity exceeds the power generation/supply capability, load shedding is practiced in order to relieve strain on the source.
By definition, Load shedding is described as a controlled shutdown of the power supply.
With the rise in fuel prices and an upsurge in energy demand, the shortage of power generation capacity is evident in many countries across the globe. Utility power companies are forced to take measures and controls for protecting power grids against prolonged failures. If the insufficient power supply is incapable of meeting consumer demand, the grid might become unstable. Unstable grid results in damage to equipment and leaves more customers without power for extended periods. In order to tackle this situation, load shedding is the only option, and if load shedding is not triggered, damages on a massive scale are expected to happen.
Levels/Stages of Load Shedding
Power supply companies categorize load shedding into different levels. Levels, also termed stages determine how often and for how long the load shedding will last within a given period of time. As the level increases, so does the frequency and duration increase.