Automatic load shedding settings should not be based on which of the following?

Automatic load shedding is a protective measure implemented in electrical power systems to prevent widespread outages and maintain stability during abnormal conditions, such as system overloads or frequency excursions. The settings for automatic load shedding must take into account various operational metrics to ensure response is timely and effective.

When considering the point about hourly load changes, it is important to note that while understanding load variations throughout the day is essential for overall load forecasting and system planning, it is less relevant to the immediate operational decisions involved in automatic load shedding. Automatic load shedding settings are typically designed to react to real-time operational conditions, such as frequency decay, voltage levels, and power flow levels—each of which provides critical insights into the current state and stability of the electrical grid.

Rate of frequency decay refers to how rapidly the system frequency is falling, which directly indicates potential instability and the need for a load reduction response. Voltage levels are crucial since they reflect the system's ability to deliver power effectively without risking equipment failure. Power flow levels indicate how much power is being transmitted through the system versus its capacity, helping to identify overload conditions.

In contrast, hourly load changes may provide useful information for system operators but are not typically used as the basis for immediate load shedding decisions. Instead, they are more relevant for