How can you evaluate electrical efficiency in your facility?

1 Calculate your power factor

Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power in an AC circuit. Real power is the useful power that performs work, while apparent power is the product of voltage and current. A low power factor means that you are drawing more current than you need, which increases your losses and reduces your efficiency. To calculate your power factor, you need to measure your real power and apparent power using a power meter or a clamp meter. Then, divide your real power by your apparent power. The ideal power factor is 1, which means that all the power is used effectively. A power factor below 0.9 is considered poor and may incur penalties from your utility company.

2 Monitor your power quality

Power quality is the measure of how well your voltage, frequency, and waveform match the ideal standards for your equipment and devices. Poor power quality can cause inefficiencies, malfunctions, and damage to your electrical system. Some common power quality issues are voltage fluctuations, harmonics, transients, and interruptions. To monitor your power quality, you need to use a power quality analyzer or a power logger that can record and display various parameters of your power supply. You can also use software to analyze and report your power quality data and compare it with industry standards and benchmarks.

3 Optimize your load distribution

Load distribution is the way you balance your electrical load among your phases, circuits, and transformers. A balanced load distribution ensures that you use your electrical capacity efficiently and avoid overloading or underloading your system. An unbalanced load distribution can cause voltage drops, overheating, and equipment failure. To optimize your load distribution, you need to measure your load currents and voltages using a multimeter or a clamp meter. You can also use a thermal imager to detect hot spots and potential faults in your system. You should aim to distribute your load evenly among your phases and circuits and match your load types and sizes with your transformers.

4 Implement energy-saving measures

Energy-saving measures are the actions you take to reduce your electricity consumption and increase your efficiency. Some examples of energy-saving measures are installing energy-efficient lighting, motors, and appliances, using variable speed drives and soft starters, implementing demand response and peak shaving strategies, and upgrading your insulation and ventilation. To implement energy-saving measures, you need to conduct an energy audit to assess your current energy use and identify opportunities for improvement. You can use an energy audit kit or hire a professional energy auditor to help you with this process. You should also monitor and evaluate the results of your energy-saving measures using a power meter or a power logger.

5 Compare your performance with industry standards

Industry standards are the benchmarks and best practices that define the expected level of electrical efficiency for your facility type and size. Comparing your performance with industry standards can help you gauge your progress, identify your strengths and weaknesses, and set realistic and achievable goals. To compare your performance with industry standards, you need to use a tool or a database that provides reliable and updated information on electrical efficiency indicators and metrics for your industry. You can also consult with industry associations, experts, and peers to get feedback and advice on how to improve your electrical efficiency.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?