The amount of power that can be transmitted across a given distribution system or passed through a distribution facility at a given moment in time is referred to as the carrying capacity of that system or facility. It is often thought of as a constant value that depends upon the hardware capabilities of the distribution facility or transmission wires, but carrying capacity can vary significantly with changes in temperature and air pressure. Capacity at a given moment in time also depends on the nature of the power being transmitted (i.e. exact voltage and the consistency of the voltage) and the condition of the transmission point in question (i.e. capacity on a system which has been operating is different from capacity on a system which has just been started).

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