What does electrical load refer to in a lineman's work?

Electrical load, in the context of a lineman's work, specifically denotes the total energy demand placed on a power system. This encompasses all the electrical devices and appliances that draw power from the system at any given time. Understanding electrical load is crucial for linemen because it helps them design, maintain, and manage electrical systems to ensure they operate efficiently and safely. A clear grasp of load requirements influences decisions regarding the appropriate capacity of transformers, wires, and distribution systems to meet customer needs without overloading the infrastructure.

The other options relate to concepts that, while important in electrical work, do not encapsulate the broad definition of electrical load. For instance, the capacity of a transformer or the size of electrical wires pertain to the equipment's specifications rather than the overall power demand. The simple count of streetlights, while a component that contributes to the load, doesn't represent the full scope of what electrical load entails in terms of energy consumption across the entire system. Therefore, the choice that correctly defines electrical load is the total energy demand placed on the power system.