Solar System Designs and Installation
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Power Factor Correction
The power factor of an AC electrical power system is defined as the ratio of the real power flowing to the load to the apparent power in the circuit.
In an electric power system, a load with a low power factor draws more current than a load with a high power factor for the same amount of useful power transferred. The higher currents increase the energy lost in the distribution system, and require larger wires and other equipment. Because of the costs of larger equipment and wasted energy, electrical utilities will usually charge a higher cost to industrial or commercial customers where there is a low power factor.
A high power factor is generally desirable in a transmission system to reduce transmission losses and improve voltage regulation at the load. It is often desirable to adjust the power factor of a system to near 1.0. When reactive elements supply or absorb reactive power near the load, the apparent power is reduced. Power factor correction may be applied by an electric power transmission utility to improve the stability and efficiency of the transmission network. Individual electrical customers who are charged by their utility for low power factor may install correction equipment to reduce those costs.
An automatic power factor correction unit consists of a number of capacitors that are switched by means of contactors. These contactors are controlled by a regulator that measures power factor in an electrical network. Depending on the load and power factor of the network, the power factor controller will switch the necessary blocks of capacitors in steps to make sure the power factor stays above a selected value.
Fundings may be available from your utility provider for installing a power factor correction unit. An idea of who is eligible in Energex area can be determined by clicking the link below.
https://www.energex.com.au/residential-and-business/positive-payback/positive-payback-for-business/power-factor-correction
We have partnered with industry leaders to provide the best available Power factor correction equipment for your business.
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