Lastgangs

Lastgangs, in the energy sector, refer to the time-resolved representation of electrical load. The term is commonly translated as load profiles or load curves and describes how electricity consumption or demand evolves over time for a customer, a group of customers, or a geographic area. Lastgangs can be based on actual meter readings or on forecasted or synthetic models used for planning and market simulations.

Measured Lastgangs are derived from interval metering data, typically with resolutions such as 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or 60 minutes. They give a granular view of when energy is consumed and are used for billing under time‑of‑use tariffs, demand charges, and settlement in some markets. Forecasted or modeled Lastgangs are constructed from historical patterns, weather factors, building use, and other drivers to support grid planning, capacity expansion, and market forecasting. Synthetic or standardized profiles are also employed when detailed metering data are not available.

Applications of Lastgangs include tariff design and billing, demand management, peak shaving, and grid reliability planning. They help utilities anticipate capacity needs, evaluate the impact of distributed energy resources, and support demand-response programs. Privacy and data quality are common considerations, as high-resolution profiles can reveal individual consumption patterns, and inaccuracies in the data or models can affect planning outcomes.

See also: load curve, load profile, energy forecasting, metering, demand response.