Power Factor is the ratio of real power, or power actually used (kW) to apparent power (kVA). A site with low power factor draws more apparent power than real power. So, if a site has a bad power factor, they will be drawing more power than they actually use, this inefficiency will increase power bills and the site’s carbon footprint.
Power factor correction, is the correction of leading, or lagging power within a power system, by the use of capacitor banks, or static VAR Generators. Poor power factor is more evident in industrial sites where there is a lot of reactive loads such as motors. However, many commercial buildings with motors, pumps, solar inverters, and LED lighting may require Power Factor Correction or Harmonic Mitigation to ensure they are effectively utilising their power supply.
