Planning by utilities to ensure that electric generators operate as scheduled, based upon load forecasts (also, operating a generator to balance short-term load fluctuations)
Reducing electricity use from the grid during peak periods to increase reliability and moderate the energy-clearing price during system-wide peak demand; reducing electric load or using qualifying emergency generators on the customer side of the meter.
The difference between net capacity (a system's total capacity resources) and net internal demand, that is generally expressed in MW for operating reserves and as a percentage of either system load or installed generating capacity for planning reserves
The cost of providing additional electricity; "The competitive price of a MWh of electricity is equal to the additional amount it would cost to generate an additional MWh, once all current demand is met. This additional cost is commonly referred to as the marginal cost. The marginal cost of generating electricity rises as more electricity is produced, because different generators use different types and amounts of fuel_.under competition, the rising marginal cost of electricity leads to high prices when demand is high and low prices during low-demand periods." (GAO-02-828 Restructured... Read more about Marginal Cost
The ability to alter the price of wholesale or retail electricity or services to one's advantage -- and away from competitive levels -- in a competitive market (also called market manipulation)
