LEED AP Building Design and Construction (BD+C) Practice Exam

Why is load shedding typically enacted?

1. To allow for system maintenance

2. To promote energy efficiency

3. To reduce loads during capacity shortages or emergencies

4. To stabilize energy costs

The correct answer is: To reduce loads during capacity shortages or emergencies

Load shedding is typically enacted to reduce loads during capacity shortages or emergencies. This strategy involves temporarily turning off power to certain areas or reducing the demand for electricity to prevent the entire electrical grid from becoming overloaded and failing. When there is an imbalance between the electricity supply and demand, particularly during peak usage times or unexpected outages, load shedding acts as a safeguard. By selectively disconnecting certain users or reducing service levels, utility companies can ensure that the remaining network remains stable and operational. While other options may touch on important aspects of energy management, they do not directly address the primary purpose of load shedding. For example, maintaining systems (first option) is a crucial function that often requires planning and scheduling rather than immediate response actions like load shedding. Similarly, promoting energy efficiency (second option) is a long-term goal and involves strategies such as better building design or technology upgrades, rather than the short-term measures implemented during capacity crises. Finally, stabilizing energy costs (fourth option) is important for market operations but is not the direct aim of load shedding itself, which is strictly a response to immediate grid instability.