Backfeeding

Backfeeding occurs when electric power is being induced into the local power grid. Power flows in the opposite direction from its usual flow. An alternating current (AC) power station typically delivers power to the power grid by inducing a current to flow into the power grid when the voltage is positive, and inducing it to flow out of the power grid when the voltage is negative, and a typical power grid load (e.g. factory or home) induces current to flow out of the power grid when the voltage is positive and into the power grid when the voltage is negative. If either of these types of facilities starts inducing current like the other, then backfeeding is occurring. Generators that are backfeeding pumping energy into the grid making it available for all to use.