What is the maximum time allowed for a load dump post-contingency?

The correct response regarding the maximum time allowed for a load dump post-contingency is 5 minutes. This timeframe is critical in ensuring that the stability and reliability of the electrical grid are maintained after a contingency event, such as a sudden loss of generation or a transmission line trip.

In the context of grid operations, a load dump involves rapidly decreasing the demand on the system, which can be necessary to prevent overloading generators or other components following a disturbance. Allowing a maximum of 5 minutes for this action ensures that operators can promptly respond to any imbalances in power supply and demand, effectively stabilizing the system without risking further incidents.

Shorter or longer durations may not adequately address the immediate needs of the system, which is why this specific time frame is established within operational guidelines.