Understanding Electrical Load Calculations for MEP Projects
Introduction Electrical load calculation is a critical step in MEP design that ensures a building's electrical system is designed to handle the expected power demand efficiently. Proper load calculations help in preventing overload, ensuring energy efficiency, and meeting local regulations such as those set by Abu Dhabi Distribution Company (ADDC) . 1. What is Electrical Load Calculation? Electrical load calculation is the process of determining the total power consumption of a building or a specific area to size circuit breakers, transformers, cables, DBs, FDBs, SMDBs, and MDBs appropriately. 2. Steps for Electrical Load Calculation Step 1: Identify the Loads Classify all electrical loads in the project, such as: ✔ Lighting Load – Indoor and outdoor lighting ✔ Power Load – Sockets, appliances, industrial machines ✔ HVAC Load – Air conditioning units, chillers, fans ✔ Special Loads – Elevators, pumps, emergency systems Step 2: Calculate Individual Loads The load is calcula...