Calculation of Required Kvar to Raise Power Factor

Calculation of Required Kvar to Raise Power Factor

This web page can be used to calculate the kvar required to raise the power factor of a constant kw (real power) load. The initial power factor, desired power factor, and load kw are required for the calculation.

A negative power factor is interpreted as a leading power factor. A positive power factor is considered a lagging power factor. A negative kvar value should be interpreted as capacitive kvar that shall be removed. A positive kvar value should be interpreted as capacitive kvar that shall be added.

Table 1 - Calculation of Required Kvar Known Variables: Initial or Present Power Factor, Desired Power Factor, and Real Power of Load
where: = Initial Power Factor Angle = Final Power Factor Angle

Input Initial Power Factor
Input Desired Power Factor
Input Load KW (KW)

Calculated Results are below:
Required Kvar
Initial KVA
Final KVA after addition/removal of capacitors.

Northeast Power Systems, Inc.
66 Carey Road
Queensbury, New York 12804
Phone: 518-792-4776
Fax: 518-792-5767

E-mail: sales@nepsi.com
Website: www.nepsi.com