What is the purpose of a load center?

A load center, also known as an electrical panel or breaker box, primarily serves the purpose of distributing electrical power to various circuits within a building. It is the central point where the incoming electrical service is distributed to the different circuits that power various appliances, lighting, and electrical devices throughout the premises.

In addition to distributing power, load centers often include protective devices like circuit breakers or fuses that help prevent overloads, which can lead to electrical fires or damage to equipment. By effectively managing how electricity is distributed, a load center ensures that the electrical system operates safely and efficiently.

While measuring electrical current, storing energy, or converting current types are important functions in specific contexts, these do not accurately describe the primary role of a load center in a residential or commercial electrical system.