Shift Key with Robinson Meyer and Jesse Jenkins This Is What It’s Like to Run a Power Grid
34 snips
Aug 20, 2025 Mark Rothleder, senior vice president and COO of the California Independent System Operator, oversees 80% of California's electricity flow. In this engaging conversation, he explains how the grid is managed akin to air traffic control, balancing supply and demand. Rothleder shares insights on blackouts, market dynamics, and the integration of renewable resources. He highlights the complexities of forecasting energy needs and the critical strategies necessary for maintaining reliability, especially during peak demand. Plus, he tackles the mystery of pronouncing CAISO!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Grid Operator Is The System’s Air Traffic Controller
- A grid operator is the air-traffic controller of the power system, balancing supply and demand second-to-second to maintain 60 Hz.
- Operators also prevent line overloads, plan for contingencies, and manage black-start recovery.
Frequency And Interchange Are Core Controls
- Operators continuously monitor frequency and send control signals to increase or decrease resource output to hold 60 Hz.
- They also manage interchange with neighbors to control area control error near zero.
A Failed Attempt At The Generation Desk
- Mark described the control room as dimly lit with multiple desks monitoring generation, contingency, and interchange.
- He once shadowed the generation desk and created a big wall of green indicating he failed to maintain balance.