Electric Reliability Council Of Texas (ERCOT) Practice Test

Voltage Support Service is an established ancillary service category in ERCOT that focuses on keeping system voltage within limits by providing or absorbing reactive power (VARs) at key locations on the grid. Resources such as generators with reactive-power capability, and some loads or storage assets, can participate and be dispatched by the operator to support voltage when conditions threaten voltage stability. This service is actively used by ERCOT to manage voltage during stress events, outages, or heavy loading, helping prevent voltage collapse or excessive flicker. It isn’t correct to say ERCOT doesn’t use it, since VSS is a recognized part of ERCOT’s ancillary services framework. It isn’t the same as Blackstart Service, which is specifically for restoring power after a blackout. And it doesn’t require continuous online operation for a year; resources provide voltage support as contracted and dispatched as needed, not perpetually online for an entire year.