Organization for large-scale grid system tests

The stability of generating plant on a large interconnected system is a very important consideration of design and operation. Small-scale tests and the development of various types of calculator have provided the machine designer and system planning engineer with useful information, but the ultimate test is that of satisfactory performance in service. Tests on an operational system are very desirable, but before such work is carried out, the operational risks must be weighed against the importance of the results to be obtained. In 1956 it was decided that such an investigation should be made, and for the first time the Central Electricity Authority carried out steady-state and transient generator stability tests on an operational section of the system.