What is reactive power?

Reactive power is necessary to operate electrical installations in businesses. However, it increases consumption without producing a useful output. It is the electricity that flows from and to equipment while it is powered on. This results in a higher electricity bill, installation overload, and a reduced equipment lifespan.

What devices generate reactive power? Engines, lighting, compressors, electronic equipment, pumps, computers, AC systems, lifts, and many other devices that can be found in most premises.

Advantages and operation of reactive power compensation equipment

Reactive power compensation equipment includes:

• Fixed capacitors, which compensate for reactive power in transformation centres or engines.
• Automatic capacitor banks, which offer various stages of compensation with different power levels and power up automatically depending on the load on the installation.

Reactive power compensation equipment transforms 'phantom energy' into savings for your business from day one by reducing or eliminating penalties associated with reactive power consumption and making your installation more efficient. Considering the lifespan of these devices (around eight years), this results in a significant reduction in your electricity bill.

If you choose to install a fixed capacitor or an automatic capacitor bank in your business, you will increase the lifespan and performance of the electrical system by improving supply (fewer voltage drops and losses due to conductor and equipment heating and unexpected protection trips), reduce CO₂ emissions, and benefit from increased power.

What types of businesses should install reactive power compensation equipment?

These devices are excellent and recommended for businesses that face economic penalties for reactive power on their bill, such as restaurants, hotels, bakeries, and industries, among others.

For example, a restaurant with a contracted power of 33 kW and an annual active energy consumption of 67,331 kWh could make the investment in a capacitor bank profitable (€1,779 per year) within just nine months by saving on penalties.

At Endesa, we offer  expert services to help you find the right solution for your business's installation needs and size the equipment based on technical and profitability criteria.