Original network
Drivers split between two equal routes at equilibrium.
Top route
2000Bottom route
2000Travel time
65A faster-looking connection can make the whole network worse. Explore the paradox in road traffic and in a small electric grid where a connected tie line can force costly redispatch.
Traffic penalty
Grid savings from removal
Equilibrium type
Grid status
Original network
Drivers split between two equal routes at equilibrium.
Top route
2000Bottom route
2000Travel time
65Shortcut added
Individual choices shift the system into a worse equilibrium.
Shortcut users
4000Old-route users
0Travel time
80Tie connected
The low-impedance tie creates loop flow and may bind its thermal limit.
Total cost
$14.1kG1 dispatch
360G2 dispatch
140Tie removed
Removing the troublesome connection can restore cheaper dispatch.
Total cost
$5.0kG1 dispatch
500G2 dispatch
0