Q7Restructured Power System
Question
Q.7. What do you mean by start capability service?
Answer
Start-up capability service is an ancillary service in which a generator (typically one capable of black-start) provides the capability to start up without relying on an external power supply, essential for restoring the grid after a total or partial blackout.
Start capability service (black-start capability) refers to the ability of certain designated generating units to start up entirely independently, using only their own on-site auxiliary power sources (diesel generators, batteries, or other self-contained means), without needing to draw any start-up power from the external grid; this capability is essential for system restoration after a partial or total blackout, since a black-start-capable unit can be started first and then used to progressively energize the transmission network and provide the auxiliary power needed to start other, non-black-start generating units, and is procured by the system operator as a dedicated ancillary service given its critical but infrequently-used nature.