Primary control power is a key instrument for ensuring the stability and security of electrical energy supply systems. It refers to the immediate and automatic provision of electrical power to compensate for frequency fluctuations in the power grid. In a power grid, the ratio between generated and consumed electricity must be constant in order to maintain a frequency of 50 hertz. If there is a disruption, such as a sudden increase or decrease in electricity consumption, the primary control power reacts to quickly restore the balance.

In Austria, primary control power is provided as part of a market-based system. Energy producers that are able to increase or reduce their output quickly offer their capacities to support the balance in the grid. These suppliers can include both fossil fuel power plants and renewable energy sources such as hydropower and biomass. In a country that relies heavily on hydropower, this energy source plays a central role in the provision of primary control power, as hydropower plants are able to adjust their output within a few minutes.

An important aspect of primary control power is the integration of renewable energies. With the growing proportion of solar and wind power in the energy mix, the grids must become more flexible in order to balance out the variable generation patterns of these energy sources. Primary control power is even more important here, as it helps to keep the grid stable while the share of renewable energies increases.

At European level, primary control power is part of a broader concept of grid stability. In many countries of the European Union, there are mechanisms for cooperation and the exchange of control power between grids. The ENTSO-E (European Network of Transmission System Operators for Electricity) coordinates these efforts and promotes the harmonization of markets for balancing power in order to increase security of supply throughout the EU.

Billing and remuneration for primary control power is generally carried out via an auction system in which providers offer their capacities and the grid operators select the best offers. This leads to an increase in efficiency and competition between providers.

In summary, it can be said that primary control power is a key element for the stability of the electricity grid in Austria and Europe. It makes it possible to manage the increasing variability of electricity generation from renewable sources and ensure the reliability of the electricity supply. In view of the challenges posed by the energy transition, the role of primary control power will become even more important in order to ensure a sustainable and stable energy system.