Source Apparent Power, Optimizing Infrastructure Efficiency in Polyphase Systems

In the electric power industry, non-active power measurements (apparent power, reactive power, and power factor) of polyphase systems use several different calculation methods. These various methods can yield significantly different results based on connection system (wye, delta, etc.), load imbalance, and harmonics. This paper presents an overview and rationale for a measurement method referred to as Source Apparent Power (Source VA). It will be illustrated that Source VA gives a consistent and accurate indication of the size required of the electrical delivery infrastructure (source) and is not degraded by connection system, load imbalance, or harmonic content.