PJM Generation Dispatcher Practice Exam

Reactive power is linked to voltage support because it plays a crucial role in maintaining voltage levels within the power system. In electrical systems, reactive power is essential for the functioning of inductive loads such as motors and transformers, which require it to establish magnetic fields. Additionally, reactive power helps to stabilize voltage levels and reduce losses, ensuring that the system can deliver active power effectively.

Voltage support is particularly important in transmission and distribution networks where maintaining adequate voltage levels is necessary for the reliability of power supply. Reactive power can be provided by various devices, including capacitors and synchronous condensers, which can inject reactive power into the system to counteract voltage drops or absorb reactive power when there's excess energy, helping to keep the system operating efficiently.

Active power and real power, on the other hand, refer to the actual work done by the electrical system in the form of energy consumed by loads, while imaginary power is a term that typically does not apply in power systems analysis. Thus, the association of reactive power with voltage support is a fundamental concept in power system management and stability.