In which situation would a Balancing Authority likely increase output?

A Balancing Authority's primary responsibility is to maintain the balance between the electricity supply and the demand within its control area, while also ensuring that system frequency remains within acceptable limits. When the frequency decreases, this is an indication that the total generation is falling short of the demand. A decline in frequency suggests that the system is experiencing a deficit – meaning there isn’t enough power being generated to meet the consumption requirements.

In this scenario, to restore the balance and stabilize frequency, the Balancing Authority would likely increase output by bringing more generation online or boosting the output of existing generators. This action helps to raise the frequency back to its nominal range, ensuring the reliability of the power system.

The other situations outlined do not require an increase in output because they indicate either a sufficient generation capacity or a lower demand that would not necessitate increased generation. For instance, if the frequency increases or if generation exceeds demand, it indicates a surplus of generation or a drop in usage, which would not require any action to increase output. Similarly, a decrease in demand would imply that existing generation capacity is adequate, thus negating the need for an output increase.