Which energy sources are typically used to meet baseload demand?

• A. Coal and nuclear
• B. Solar PV during daytime
• C. Gas turbines
• D. Hydroelectric during floods

Answer: (A)

Baseload demand is the minimum level of electricity a grid must supply continuously, so the generators chosen to meet it should run nearly all the time with high reliability and low incremental fuel cost. Coal and nuclear plants fit this role well because they can operate continuously for long periods, delivering large amounts of power with high capacity factors and relatively stable operating costs. Solar PV cannot meet baseload since it only generates during daylight and varies with weather, creating unavoidable gaps at night and on cloudy days. Gas turbines are designed for quick startups and peaking, not for steady, round-the-clock operation, so they’re used to supplement demand rather than to carry baseload. Hydroelectric power can contribute to baseload in some settings, but production is highly dependent on water flow and, during floods, is less predictable as a steady source. Thus, coal and nuclear are the typical baseload options.