Resources · BC Hydro tariffs
BC Hydro power factor surcharge
BC Hydro requires business customers to keep an average power factor between 90% lagging and unity. Below 90% lagging, BC Hydro may apply a surcharge on the sum of all charges, after notice, if the customer does not correct it.
Check BC Hydro for the current tariff. NeoTechX is not affiliated with BC Hydro.
Surcharge by average power factor
| Average power factor (lagging) | Surcharge on the sum of all charges |
|---|---|
| 88% to under 90% | 2% |
| 85% to under 88% | 4% |
| 80% to under 85% | 9% |
| 75% to under 80% | 16% |
| 70% to under 75% | 24% |
| 65% to under 70% | 34% |
| 60% to under 65% | 44% |
| 55% to under 60% | 57% |
| 50% to under 55% | 72% |
| under 50% | 80% |
What is power factor?
Power factor is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA). Motors, compressors and transformers draw reactive current that makes the utility supply more current than the useful work needs, which lowers power factor.
Facilities usually correct a low power factor with capacitor banks or drives, designed and installed by qualified electrical professionals. NeoShift Phase 1 reports power factor against BC Hydro's requirement as a watch item.
Frequently asked questions
What power factor does BC Hydro require?
BC Hydro's Terms and Conditions (section 7.2.1) require an average power factor between 90% lagging and unity.
Does BC Hydro charge for a leading power factor?
No surcharge or credit applies to a leading power factor, though a leading power factor is outside the requirement. The surcharge applies to lagging power factor only, at BC Hydro's discretion, after notice if the customer does not correct it.
Want to see your power factor alongside your peaks?
Sources
- BC Hydro Electric Tariff, Terms and Conditions section 7.2