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Glossary
Utilisation of services

Power utilisation describes the actual use of the available electrical power in a certain period of time. It is crucial for efficiency in the energy market and plays a central role in grid stability and planning.

10/21/2024

In the context of the energy market, power utilisation refers to the actual use of available electrical power by consumers and producers within a certain period of time. This key figure is crucial for the planning and operation of electricity grids and has far-reaching effects on the efficiency of the entire energy system.

In Austria, where a large proportion of electricity generation comes from renewable sources, power utilisation is particularly relevant. The ability to actually utilise the power generated is a key factor for grid stability. For example, if the feed-in of solar or wind energy fluctuates due to weather conditions, the electricity grid must be able to react flexibly to these changes. Power utilisation plays a central role here, as it reflects the actual use of electricity in real time.

Power utilisation is monitored by smart meters that record consumption data in real time. This data enables grid operators to better balance supply and demand. In times of high demand, power consumption can increase, which can lead to an overload of the grid. To prevent this, load management systems can be implemented that adjust the consumption of large customers over time or utilise alternative energy sources.

Another important aspect is the significance of power utilisation for the cost structure in the energy market. Suppliers of electricity must not only take into account the generation costs, but also the costs of providing the infrastructure required to transmit and distribute the energy. High power utilisation at peak times can therefore lead to higher costs, which are ultimately passed on to consumers.

In addition, power utilisation has an impact on investment decisions in the energy sector. Operators of energy plants must take expected power utilisation into account in order to optimally plan their capacities. In Austria, for example, investments are being made in new storage technologies that make it possible to store surplus energy at times of low demand and feed it into the grid when demand is high. Such solutions are crucial for ensuring the stability of the grid and promoting the integration of renewable energies.

The EU has clear targets for increasing energy efficiency and promoting renewable energy. In this context, power utilisation is an important indicator of progress. Optimising the use of existing resources can help achieve climate targets and accelerate the transition to a more sustainable energy future.

In summary, power utilisation is a central concept in the energy market, affecting both the technical efficiency and the economic aspects of energy supply. In Austria, it plays a key role in the integration of renewable energy, grid stability and cost structures in the energy system. Continuously monitoring and analysing power consumption will be crucial to mastering the challenges of the energy future and driving forward the sustainable development of the energy supply.

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