April 22, 2011
Seasonal maintenance helps keep power online during summer and winter peaks
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration based on data from ISO-NE (Daily Capacity Status)
Electricity generators require significant maintenance to ensure they are available to run when called on. The owners and operators of electricity generators typically perform maintenance during the low-demand seasons (spring and fall). For example, the chart shows recent historical maintenance data from Independent System Operator – New England (ISO-NE). At certain times of the year, 20-25% of its generating capacity may be out on scheduled maintenance. Maintenance reduces the likelihood that the generators will be unable to run in high-demand periods (summer and winter) when needed.