Practical Law Glossary Item 2-521-7060 (Approx. 2 pages)
Glossary
Peaking Load Plant
Also known as a peaker. A power plant that is available to meet electricity demand that exceeds base load demand. Peaker plants are:
Easily dispatched because they have quick start times and can be ramped up and shut down easily.
Inefficient and expensive to operate. These plants may operate only a few hours a day to meet increased demand for electricity (for example, during the periods of high air conditioner use).