What additional load should be calculated for commercial and industrial facilities?

In commercial and industrial facilities, process equipment loads are pivotal because they directly contribute to the operational efficiency and energy demands of the facility. These types of loads can include machinery, conveyors, pumps, and other equipment essential for manufacturing or operations. Unlike routine lighting or heating loads, which are more standard across facilities, process equipment loads can vary widely based on the specific operations of the facility and may also change with production schedules or equipment usage.

Calculating these loads accurately is crucial for designing an electrical system that can handle the maximum expected demand without risking overloads, which could lead to operational downtime or safety hazards. Proper assessment ensures that the electrical infrastructure is not only adequate but also strategically designed to accommodate any changes in production processes that may arise.

While routine lighting loads, heating loads, and low voltage equipment loads are certainly important, they do not account for the specialized demands of industrial operations the way process equipment loads do. Therefore, the focus on process equipment is essential for ensuring a reliable and efficient electrical service in these environments.