The demand refers to the rate of electric energy delivery to or by a system or component of a system, typically stated in kW, MW, or GW, at a specific moment or averaged over any specified period of time. Demand and load should not be confounded.

To provide electricity to our homes and businesses, electricity is continuously flowing. How much of it is used at any given moment determines the demand for it. The greater the demand, the more electricity individuals are using at any given time.

Demand for electricity is determined by when it is used, as opposed to consumption, which is determined by how much electricity you use altogether.

One kilowatt-hour, or 1,000 watts, will be used if a 100-watt lamp is left on for 10 hours (kWh). 1,000 watts would be consumed if ten 100-watt light bulbs were turned on for an hour, but because that electricity would be used up much more quickly, demand for it would rise considerably.

What is the difference between Consumption and Demand?

Demand and consumption are two related but distinct measurement parameters that must be grasped when discussing electrical energy. Most individuals are more accustomed to the idea of consumption. It is simply the total quantity of energy consumed. Demand is that consumption’s current pace.

A collection of rocks in different shapes and sizes serves as an easy analogy. Imagine you were shifting the mass. Because the weight of the rocks symbolizes the total amount of energy you would use, the consumption is comparable to the weight of the rocks. As it symbolizes the amount of power you would need to have “available” to move just that one rock at that precise moment, the weight of the largest rock is comparable to the demand.

Also Read: What is Distribution Power?

Electric demand for residential customers is typically not monitored. Commercial customers, however, are paid for both the amount of energy used and the rate at which it is used. The utility must be able to give more energy as the total customer base uses it more quickly.

Its capacity is the amount of energy the system must be able to produce to satisfy the instantaneous load (even if it only lasts for a brief period of time).

To ensure that the electrical distribution equipment is the right size, this idea is also applied when designing a system or a structure. A utility’s capacity must be sufficient to satisfy demand in order to ensure that no customers go without electricity.

Share.
mm

Elliot is a passionate environmentalist and blogger who has dedicated his life to spreading awareness about conservation, green energy, and renewable energy. With a background in environmental science, he has a deep understanding of the issues facing our planet and is committed to educating others on how they can make a difference.

Leave A Reply