What does maintaining acceptable voltage levels help avoid in the bulk electric system?

Maintaining acceptable voltage levels in the bulk electric system is crucial for ensuring the stability and reliability of the power supply. When voltage levels are within the acceptable range, it helps avoid blackouts, which are widespread service interruptions that can occur when the electrical grid becomes unstable or overloads.

If voltage levels drop too low or rise too high, it can lead to inefficient operation of electrical equipment and ultimately result in failure of critical infrastructure components. When equipment fails due to improper voltage levels, it can trigger cascading effects throughout the grid that could lead to a blackout as systems struggle to respond to the sudden changes or stresses.

By keeping voltage levels stable and within prescribed limits, the grid can operate more reliably and efficiently, which effectively minimizes the risk of widespread power outages.