What is typically necessary for a power system to maintain its stability during peak load conditions?

To maintain stability during peak load conditions, it is essential to have sufficient reactive power resources. Reactive power is crucial for voltage control within the power system, especially under heavy load scenarios. When the demand for electricity is at its peak, the system experiences higher voltage drops across transmission lines, which can lead to instability if not managed properly.

Reactive power helps to maintain adequate voltage levels, ensuring that the transmission of active power can occur smoothly and preventing issues such as voltage collapses or blackouts. It effectively supports the flow of active power (the actual electricity consumed) while maintaining system reliability. Therefore, having adequate reactive power resources allows the system to respond to fluctuations in demand and helps in maintaining the stability of the power grid during these critical peak conditions.