How is the Reactive Power Penalty Calculated?

The risk of reactive penalty is reflected in your monthly bill. the ratio of inductive reactive energy to active energy exceeding and the capacitive ratio exceeding This occurs when (approximately cosφ ≥ 0.98 is targeted). Enter the values from your invoice into the tool below to see your rates and status in seconds.

Inductive ratio = Inductive kVArh ÷ Active kWh · Limit: (inductive), (capacitive)
Example calculation: Active 42,000 kWh, inductive 6,500 kVArh, capacitive 300 kVArh → inductive ratio .5, capacitive %0.7, cosφ ≈ 0.99 → below both thresholds ( / ), no penalty risk.

Reactive Power & Compensation Penalty Risk

Enter the energy values from your monthly bill; see your inductive/capacitive reactive ratios, approximate power factor (cosφ), and your status according to penalty thresholds.

Inductive ratio
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Capacitive ratio
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Approx. power factor
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General thresholds: In common practice, it's monthly. inductive reactive energy ≤ active energy, capacitive ≤ 'i should be (approximately cosφ ≥ 0.98). Binding thresholds and penalty conditions may vary depending on EPDK regulations and your distribution company; exemptions may apply depending on your consumer class. This information is for preliminary purposes only; the final assessment will be based on your invoice.
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How is it calculated?

  1. Enter the active energy (kWh) value from your bill.
  2. Enter the inductive and capacitive reactive energy (kVArh) values.
  3. Press Calculate; your odds will be compared against the thresholds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the reactive penalty limit percentage?
In common practice, monthly inductive reactive energy should not exceed of active energy, and capacitive energy should not exceed . The binding threshold may vary according to EPDK regulations and your distribution company.
How can reactive penalties be prevented?
With a properly sized and regularly maintained compensation (capacitor) system, the power factor is kept above the target value.
What should cosφ be?
To stay below penalty thresholds, the power factor is generally targeted at 0.98 or higher.

Related tools and services

This tool and its content are for general informational purposes only; they do not constitute a binding inspection/declaration of conformity. Definitive results will be determined through on-site inspection in accordance with relevant legislation and standards. Get a quote →