Capacitor Banks: Power Factor Correction in Malaysia
In Malaysia, businesses with a low power factor (PF) face penalties imposed by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB). If a facility’s PF falls below 0.85, a surcharge of 1.5% per 0.01 PF unit is applied. If it drops further below 0.75, the penalty increases to 3% per 0.01 PF unit. These additional charges can significantly impact electricity costs, making power factor correction a necessity for industries and commercial operations.
How Capacitor Banks Improve Power Factor
A low power factor occurs when inductive loads such as motors, transformers, and fluorescent lighting draw excessive reactive power from the supply. This increases the apparent power (kVA), leading to higher electricity bills. Capacitor banks are installed to counteract this effect by supplying reactive power, thereby reducing the demand on the utility grid.
Key Benefits of Capacitor Banks:
✅ Reduce kVA Demand – Lowering reactive power requirements decreases the total power drawn, resulting in lower electricity costs.
✅ Avoid TNB Penalties – Maintaining a PF above 0.85 helps businesses avoid unnecessary surcharges.
✅ Improve System Efficiency – A higher PF enhances voltage stability and reduces losses in electrical systems.
✅ Extend Equipment Lifespan – Reduced stress on transformers and generators leads to longer-lasting electrical components.
Price
Price from RM4,000 for TNB usage monthly average 2000 kWh.
Energy management
Installing a capacitor bank is a cost-effective solution for businesses looking to improve power factor, reduce kVA demand, and avoid TNB penalties. By optimizing energy usage, companies not only save on electricity bills but also contribute to a more efficient and sustainable power grid. If your facility is experiencing low PF issues, it’s time to consider a power factor correction board to enhance your energy management strategy.