Reactive Power

What is Reactive Power?

Reactive power is a concept to describe the background energy movement in an Alternating Current (AC) system arising from the production of electric and magnetic fields.

Why do we need to control Reactive Power?

National Grid has a requirement to maintain the reactive power balances on the Transmission System. As Reactive Power can only be managed on a local basis, without the appropriate injections of reactive power at correct locations, the voltage profile of the transmission system would breach statutory planning and operational limits.

What Services do we procure?

National Grid controls Reactive Power through two Balancing Services, Obligatory Reactive Power Service and Enhanced Reactive Service.