An RTO can refer to different things depending on the context. Here are some possible meanings:

• Regional Transmission Organization: In the United States, an RTO is an electric power transmission system operator that coordinates, controls, and monitors a multi-state electric grid. It is an organization formed at the approval of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and must satisfy certain characteristics and functions to become an RTO. Its functions include operational authority, short-term reliability, and market monitoring).

• Regenerative Thermal Oxidizer: An RTO is an industrial system that destroys volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in process exhaust air before it pollutes the environment. It is a type of air pollution control equipment that uses regenerative heat recovery to make the system fuel-efficient. RTOs are commonly used in industries producing a high waste stream containing low VOC concentrations such as paint manufacturing, printing, and food processing, among others. RTOs destroy air pollutants at temperatures ranging from 815 °C (1,500 F) to 980°C (1,800 F) .

• Recovery Time Objective: RTO is the maximum acceptable time that an application, computer, network, or system can be down after an unexpected disaster, failure, or comparable event takes place. RTO captures the maximum allowable time between restoration of normal service levels and resumption of typical operations and the unexpected failure or disaster. RTO defines a turning point, after which time the consequences of interruption from a disaster or failure become unacceptable. It is a critical metric for disaster recovery planning and business continuity.

In summary, RTO can refer to a Regional Transmission Organization, a Regenerative Thermal Oxidizer, or a Recovery Time Objective.