Demand
Demand is the rate at which electricity is being consumed at a given moment, measured in kW, distinct from total energy consumed over time.
Definition
Demand refers to the instantaneous rate of electricity consumption, measured in kW, as opposed to the total energy consumed over a period (kWh). Demand matters separately from total consumption because grid infrastructure and some tariffs are priced based on peak demand, not just total usage.
Why It Matters
High demand peaks — even briefly — can trigger demand charges or infrastructure constraints independent of total monthly consumption, making demand management a distinct cost lever from efficiency alone.
How ecolyptus Helps
ecolyptus tracks demand alongside consumption, flagging peak demand events that may be relevant to tariff structure or capacity planning.