ClimateAugust 16, 2026
dispatchability
dis-patch-uh-BIL-uh-tee
Definition
The ability of an energy source to generate electricity exactly when it is requested by the power grid, rather than only when environmental conditions allow.
Etymology
Derived from the verb dispatch, which originated in the late 15th century from the Italian 'dispacciare' (to hasten or expedite), combined with the suffix -ability to denote the capacity to be sent out or put to work.
In the news
The article uses this term to explain why concentrating solar power is superior to standard solar panels, noting that it can provide electricity on demand in the evening when household energy consumption peaks.
South Africa is overlooking solar technology that can keep generating electricity after sunset
Read the full article ↗The Conversation