Synchronized reserves refer to generation output that can be increased within what timeframe?

Synchronized reserves represent the portion of reserves that can be activated quickly to meet unexpected demand or contingencies in the power system. This specific type of reserve is crucial for maintaining the balance between supply and demand, especially during sudden outages or spikes in load.

The correct timeframe for synchronized reserves is 10 minutes. This means that any generation output designated as synchronized reserves must be capable of ramping up or being made available within that 10-minute window in response to grid needs. This rapid response is essential for managing the reliability of the electrical grid since it allows for immediate adjustments to generation resources in real-time situations where power supply variances occur.

Understanding the importance of these reserves is key for maintaining operational stability in the electricity grid, particularly within systems like PJM, where demand variability and supply interruptions can significantly affect performance. Thus, having a generation output that can be increased within 10 minutes ensures that these reserves can respond effectively to any sudden changes in system conditions.