Methodist University Hospital has been getting hit with power factor penalties from Memphis Light Gas & Water. PF averaging 0.82 when tariff requires 0.90 minimum. They're paying 1% penalty for every 0.01 below 0.90. That's 8% penalty on entire demand portion! Anyone know good capacitor installers in Memphis area?
Methodist Hospital Memphis - MLGW power factor penalties
Hospital equipment is notorious for poor power factor. MRI machines, X-ray units, computer servers. I've seen hospitals running 0.75-0.80 regularly. Capacitor banks usually pay for themselves in 12-18 months.
Update - found local contractor who installed 450 kVAR of capacitors. Power factor now steady at 0.95. Monthly savings about $3,200. Total project cost $18,500 so payback is under 6 months.