The first three terms refer to energy flow that can be reduced or completely stopped with little or no notice. Interruptible energy is a type of electrical service sold to firms that might only be able to operate profitably when energy prices remain below a certain level. When interruptible energy is purchased, the purchaser voluntarily assumes the risk of loss of access to that energy, which usually occurs only during peak demand periods or during periods when market prices rise above the agreed-upon rate. Commercial, industrial and agricultural customers tend to be the first affected by this type of interruption.

Interruptible rate is the agreed-upon rate for energy sold as interruptible.

See also: