What is 'Power Factor Correction' and why should you care?

Commercial & Business Power 6 min read

Business Impact

Poor power factor means you draw more current than necessary for the useful work done. The DNO may charge reactive power penalties; you pay for capacity you do not use efficiently. In factories with motors, welders, and inductive loads, power factor can drop significantly. Correction reduces demand charges, avoids penalties, and can free up capacity on your supply.

The Details

Power factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA). Inductive loads (motors, fluorescent ballasts, welders) create a lagging power factor. Capacitors or active power factor correction (APFC) units counteract this, bringing PF closer to unity. Many businesses see a 5-15% reduction in electricity costs after installation - and some avoid reactive power penalties entirely.

Assessment involves measuring your current power factor and load profile. We can advise on whether PFC is worthwhile for your site - and design a solution that meets DNO and installation standards.",

Regulatory Reference

Power factor correction equipment must be installed in line with BS 7671 and BS EN 61921 (power factor correction equipment). Coordination with the DNO is required where large capacitor banks are installed. Harmonic distortion should be considered per BS EN 61000 series.

Out-of-Hours Work

PFC installation often requires a shutdown or coordination with production. We schedule work during planned maintenance windows, shutdowns, or out-of-hours periods so your factory or warehouse is not disrupted.

Thanet Business Context

Manufacturers and workshops at Manston Business Park and industrial units across Thanet often have significant inductive loads. We assess and install power factor correction for businesses looking to cut demand charges and improve efficiency.