Averages hide stress
Rush-hour travel, hot-weather electricity use and stormwater runoff can all peak sharply.
Different systems peak for different reasons
Weather, commuting patterns, events and seasonal behaviour create different demand shapes.
Spare capacity has a purpose
Unused capacity under normal conditions can provide room for peaks, maintenance or disruptions.
Peak planning is local
Actual design criteria come from local engineering and operational standards, not generic multipliers.
Scope boundary. This page explains system relationships at a planning level. Real utility, transportation, emergency, structural, electrical, cybersecurity and public-safety decisions require local agencies and qualified professionals.