Detect reactive power, avoid costs, ensure grid quality
Dear Readers,
Especially in the summer months, pv systems can fully play to their strengths: they reduce electricity costs, increase energy independence, and cut CO₂ emissions. However, many operators are not aware that their PV systems, as generating units, must also supply reactive power to connected loads – and that the resulting reactive power should be kept as low as possible at the same time. This is the only way to ensure high grid quality, meet the connection requirements of your grid operator, and avoid unnecessary costs. The key to this lies in a clear, well-planned compensation strategy.
What reactive power is – and why It becomes a problem
Reactive power burdens internal grids, reduces the efficiency of inverters, and can lead to additional grid charges. Without targeted compensation, you give away economic potential and may even risk penalty payments from the grid operator.
Reactive power arises when voltage and current in the grid no longer run perfectly in sync – for example, when operating motors or transformers. This is physically necessary, but economically burdensome: reactive power is not “consumed” – instead, it constantly oscillates back and forth between the consumer and the grid, causing extra current flow, higher losses, and unnecessary strain on the network.
For this reason, grid operators stipulate a minimum power factor in their technical connection rules (e.g., cos φ ≥ 0.95). If this requirement is not met, reactive power charges may apply, as is already stipulated in many electricity supply contracts today.
Thoughtful Reactive Power Management Is Crucial in Hybrid Systems
In a previous technical report, we already discussed compensation in hybrid systems. Hybrid systems are energy systems that can use both self-generated power (generation units) and electricity supplied by the grid operator (load units).
While classical reactive power compensation for load units has been standard practice for many years, in hybrid systems it is still a relatively new field. Making it work requires expert knowledge, as the same reactive power requirements apply here as for individual load and generation units – but for both together. In some cases, conventional compensation measures can even cancel each other out.
To ensure correct reactive power compensation, you should therefore also include the necessary static reactive power of the generation unit(s) in the control strategy.
The Solution: Intelligent Compensation with KBR
With KBR’s automated reactive power compensation systems, multicab, in combination with the multicomp controllers and multimess energy meters, these challenges can be addressed efficiently. The systems detect in real time when reactive power occurs, take generation units into account, and automatically provide the necessary capacitive or inductive compensation at the grid connection point – fully automatically in four-quadrant operation. This not only reduces electricity costs but also relieves power lines and inverters, decreases heat losses, and extends the service life of electrical equipment.
Invest Wisely – With Quality Made in Germany
Investing in a compensation system often pays off within just a few years – especially when reactive power charges or excessive grid losses are involved. In addition, state or federal incentive programs can make the initial investment even easier. KBR systems are distinguished by their highest reliability, long service life, and ease of maintenance. Designed and manufactured in our own facility in Germany, our systems meet all relevant standards and quality requirements, making them not only technically state-of-the-art but also a secure long-term investment in your energy efficiency.
Boost Efficiency Further with Visual Energy
Those who understand their energy flows can control them effectively. That’s why many customers complement their compensation solutions with our visual energy energy data management system, TÜV-certified for ISO 50001. The software records, analyzes, and visualizes your energy flows in detail – in real time, across multiple sites, and fully compliant with ISO 50001. It also enables early detection of peak loads, continuous process optimization, and provides a solid foundation for informed energy decisions. Efficiency starts with transparency – and visual energy delivers it.
In Short: Compensating Is Optimizing
Photovoltaics pay off – especially when you focus not only on feed-in but also on grid quality, reactive power, and energy efficiency. With KBR, you rely on proven technology, solid expertise, and durable quality made in Germany. We support you from the first grid and load analysis to a tailor-made compensation solution and comprehensive energy data management with visual energy. This lays the foundation for a future-proof, economical, and transparent energy system – today and tomorrow.
Get expert advice now or join one of our free, non-binding webinars. We look forward to seeing you!
Yours, Jonas Klaus
Technical Editor
KBR GmbH