Real-Time Power Factor Correction Controller using Arduino

This paper presents a real-time power factor correction controller using Arduino, aimed at improving the efficiency of electrical systems with inductive loads. By continuously monitoring the power factor and adjusting a capacitive bank as needed, the system compensates for reactive power, reducing energy losses and enhancing load performance. The use of current and potential transformers ensures accurate data acquisition without additional sensors, making it a cost-effective solution. This approach aims to achieve a power factor close to unity, thus optimizing energy usage and minimizing penalties associated with low power factor in industrial settings. The experimental results of the implementation of the real-time power factor correction controller using Arduino successfully changed from an initial 0.6 to 0.95. The capacitor bank’s automatic switching method efficiently reduces power losses and enhances load performance.