If I install PV does power company actually make less pollution?

[Mike Payne]

I know that its more theoretical then anything else. But my question is do
most power companies actually produce pollution based on load? Or do they
always produce the same amount and dump some additional power if its not
needed?

thanks,

mike

 

[William P.N. Smith]

do most power companies actually produce pollution based on load?

Yes. While it may not be linear to load (if different plants come on
line to handle peaks), it's proportional to load.

 

[Al]

I think the coal plants are the 'base load' and they run 90%. When
everyone comes home after work and turns on the tv, the stove and the
ac, the peaking gas turbines turn on. So I'd say exhaust and emissions
are proportional to load.