What term refers to the highest of the average load during a metering period?

The term that refers to the highest of the average load during a metering period is "maximum demand." This concept is crucial in understanding how electrical systems are designed and operates, as maximum demand indicates the highest level of electrical consumption that occurs within a specified timeframe, usually measured over a 15-minute interval for electricity usage.

By establishing the maximum demand, utility companies can determine the infrastructure requirements necessary to meet peak consumption needs, ensuring that they have adequate generation capacity and distribution systems in place. This is vital for maintaining reliability and service quality, as it addresses the potential for overloads during times of high usage.

In contrast, other terms have different meanings: "average demand" refers to the total consumption averaged over time, "peak load" is a broader term that generally indicates the highest load in a specific time frame, and "base load" refers to the minimum level of demand consistently experienced over time. Understanding these distinctions helps in managing energy resources and planning for sustainable energy distribution.