ACE - Area Control Error is used to balance what two factors?

Area Control Error (ACE) is a key measure used in power system operations to ensure that generation is aligned with load. ACE reflects the difference between actual electrical generation and the electrical load demand, taking into account the effects of any scheduled interchange with neighboring areas.

The concept hinges on maintaining reliability in the electrical grid: if generation does not meet load, it can lead to frequency imbalances, which affect the stability of the grid. The primary goal is to ensure that the amount of power generated (generation) matches the amount of power consumed (load) at any given moment.

While other terms like demand or supply may seem relevant, the direct focus of ACE is specifically on the relationship between the overall generation capacity and the current load being imposed by users, which is why generation and load is the correct pairing.