What is one major risk of inadequate load distribution?

Inadequate load distribution can lead to system failure due to overload because when a power system does not properly balance the electrical load across its components, certain parts may experience excessive strain. This can happen if too much load is placed on a single transformer, generator, or conductor, which can cause overheating and eventually result in equipment damage or failure. Overloading not only jeopardizes the integrity of the equipment but can also lead to power outages or safety hazards in the system, emphasizing the importance of proper load distribution to maintain operational reliability and safety.

The other options reflect outcomes that would typically not be associated with inadequate load distribution; for instance, improved efficiency and decreased costs usually stem from effective load management, not from imbalance. Similarly, increased safety is usually a result of well-managed resources rather than poor load distribution.