Load Factor

Load factor is a measure of the utilization rate, or efficiency of electrical energy usage. It is the ratio of total energy (KWh) used in the billing period divided by the possible total energy used within the period, if used at the peak demand (KW) during the entire period.

Thus,

Load Factor = KWh/KW/hours in the period

To calculate your load factor take the total electricity (KWh) used in the month and divide it by the peak demand (KW), then divide by the number of days in the billing cycle, then divide by 24 hours in a day. The result is a ratio between zero and one.

What does Your Load Factor mean

If your load factor ratio is above 0.6 your electrical usage is reasonably efficient. If the load factor is below 0.5, you have periods of very high usage (demand) and a low utilization rate. Low load factor customers would benefit from a load management, or peak demand control system to distribute electrical usage out over longer intervals of time.

Low load factors, such as below .4, contribute significantly to the overall monthly electric bill in the form of demand charges. These demand charges are listed on the bill as coincident demand , facilities demand, and summertime related demand. If these peak demand charges are adding up to a lot of money, there is a solution.