What does a demand meter measure in addition to the total energy sold?

A demand meter is specifically designed to measure not only the total energy consumed (usually in kilowatt-hours) but also the maximum rate of energy delivery, often referred to as demand. This demand is measured in kilowatts and reflects the highest level of electrical consumption over a defined period, usually within a 15 or 30-minute interval.

Understanding the rate of energy delivery is essential for utility providers as it helps them allocate resources and manage supply effectively during peak usage times. By knowing the peak demand, utilities can better plan for infrastructure needs, optimize generation resources, and implement demand-side management strategies.

The other options relate to aspects of energy consumption but do not capture the dual function of a demand meter, which focuses on both the total energy consumed and the highest level of energy used over a specific time period.