To which load does the demand factors in Table 220.45 apply?

The demand factors in Table 220.45 apply specifically to the portion of the total branch-circuit load calculated for general illumination. This table provides a means to determine the minimum demand for lighting load requirements within a space, helping engineers and electricians accurately size circuits and ensure adequate lighting levels while also avoiding oversizing, which can lead to inefficient systems.

General illumination typically encompasses a variety of lighting sources used to provide overall lighting in an area, as opposed to loads associated with dedicated appliances or specific lighting circuits. By applying these demand factors, electrical professionals can derive a more realistic calculation for the lighting needs in terms of safety, efficiency, and compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC).

In contrast, individual appliance loads and dedicated circuits address specific items or dedicated lighting systems, which do not utilize the same demand factors outlined in Table 220.45. These aspects may require different considerations for their unique power demands rather than generalized illumination calculations. The focus on the general illumination load aligns with the intention of optimizing the design and operation of lighting within spaces.