What is meant by service lateral?

A service lateral refers specifically to the underground conductors that provide electrical service from the utility company to the service point of a building. This is the connection established to deliver power directly to a residential or commercial structure, where the service entrance is located.

The primary function of the service lateral is to ensure that electricity can safely and efficiently travel from the utility's distribution system to the meter and main panel of a property. Having this connection underground often enhances safety, reduces the risks of storm damage, and minimizes visual impact on the landscape compared to overhead lines.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the definition of a service lateral. Wiring for internal building circuits describes the internal distribution of electricity within a structure rather than the external connection to the utility. Overhead connections are typically referred to in a different context, as they do not relate to underground conductors. Conduits for external building lighting are also unrelated since they deal with the wiring systems installed for lighting purposes rather than providing a direct electrical service from the utility.