What role does an energy meter play in electrical systems?

An energy meter is specifically designed to measure the amount of electrical energy consumed by a device or a system over a given period. This function is vital for both consumers and utility companies, as it helps in billing and understanding energy usage patterns. The data collected by the energy meter allows users to monitor their consumption, enabling them to identify ways to conserve energy and potentially reduce costs. By providing accurate readings in kilowatt-hours (kWh), energy meters play a key role in the management and efficiency of electrical systems.

The other roles mentioned do not align with the primary function of an energy meter. For instance, regulating the flow of electricity pertains more to devices like circuit breakers and fuses. Converting electrical energy into mechanical energy is what motors do, while protecting circuits from overloads is the responsibility of protective devices designed to interrupt the flow in case of faults. Thus, measuring energy consumption is the unique and essential role of an energy meter within electrical systems.