PF = kW / kVA | kVAR = √(kVA²−kW²) kVA² = kW² + kVAR²
80 kW load, PF=0.80: kVA=100 | kVAR=60 Capacitor needed: 21.5 kVAR to reach PF=0.95
Frequently Asked Questions
PF is ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA). PF=1.0 means all current does useful work. Motors typically have PF 0.7–0.9.
Low PF increases current for the same useful power, increasing cable losses and utility bills. Utilities may penalise consumers with PF below 0.85 or 0.90.