What is Power Factor Correction?
There are many different types of electrical equipment which affect the electricity supply in different ways. Some electrical loads have a bad power factor, which results in higher electrical current flowing than is necessary to achieve the end result, irrespective of whether that is heating, lighting, mechanical power, ventilation, etc.
This means more generators and a heavier distribution network is required, the results of which is YOU the user have to pay for it all.
Power Factor can be regarded as a measure of “efficiency and has values ranging from 0 to 1, where 1 is 100% efficient.
Power Factor Correction equipment improves this “efficiency” so that less electrical current is needed to achieve the same result. A wide variety of products are available to do this, some of which operate automatically, in order to compensate for varying electrical loads which are common in today’s manufacturing plants and offices.
What does Power Factor Correction do?
- Reduces load in Cables and Switchgear, results in extension of their useful life and improves system reliability
- Increase the useful load from a given transformer. For example, a 1MVA transformer at 0.75 PF can only supply 750KW of load. Increasing to 0.95PF can give extra 200KW of load.
- Reduces current flow and power loss in cables and transformers, etc.
- Reduces Levied Charges. Using above example, 200KVA saving in chargeable load saves £300 per month on typical charge of £1.50 per KVA of maximum demand charge for supply.
- Reduces PF charges, & Climate Levy charges
- Reduces the number of KWH units consumed
How much will it save?
PQE will be pleased to advise on your requirement and explain the benefits and cost savings which result. This can usually be done quickly, often a copy of two or three of your electricity bills is sufficient for us to determine your requirements.
Why your company should install Power Factor Correction?
Most large consumers have dedicated incoming mains transformers. When these are fully loaded, site power usage can not be increased unless the rating of the transformer is increased. If your power factor is poor, improving it will free up capacity, which is available for business expansion.
Using power factor correction equipment to do this will save many thousands of pounds, when compared to the cost of installing a new transformer – up to 80% less. In addition the equipment can be installed easily, quickly and without the need for a supply power down of several days.
If you need Power Factor Correction, the sooner it is installed, the sooner you will save money. Interest-free government loans are available for this type . If you feel that you may need Power Factor Correction, contact us now - our advice is free.
Did you know ?
Penalty for low Power Factor - Companies whose Power Factor is below 0.95 inductive get penalised - PQE's StarVAr® improves Power Factor.
2 year Guarantee
All our equipment Is guaranteed for 2 years subject to our maintenance service terms and conditions.
Loans
Low interest loans or Carbon Trust interest free loans may be available for equipment purchase. It is a cost effective way to replace or upgrade your existing equipment with more efficient versions. For more information or discuss about the loans.
Please Contact PQE Ltd