Base Load is the portion of energy (electricity, LNG) delivered or produced that is continuous as a minimum over a given period of time at a steady rate, approximately equivalent to the minimum daily load. In electric system, the Base Load power is generated by nuclear or fossil-fuel (or, where available, biomass or geothermal) generators as the basis of the reliable and affordable electricity needed to satisfy this minimum demand.
Reference Definition by EIA: Base load is the minimum amount of electric power delivered or required over a given period of time at a steady rate. Base Load Plant is a plant, usually housing high-efficiency steam-electric units, which is normally operated to take all or part of the minimum load of a system, and which consequently produces electricity at an essentially constant rate and runs continuously. These units are operated to maximize system mechanical and thermal efficiency and minimize system operating costs.
Related Definitions in the Project: The Project Management; Electrical Engineering; Energy Definitions
