Total Energy Concepts » Power Factor Correction http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog Total Energy Concepts Blog Fri, 03 Feb 2012 19:34:38 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3 Energy-Saving Opportunities http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2010/03/01/energy-saving-opportunities/ http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2010/03/01/energy-saving-opportunities/#comments Mon, 01 Mar 2010 20:19:54 +0000 tecvbloxenergy http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/?p=135 As businesses find new ways to streamline operations and trim costs, new equipment is often the last priority.  Yet business owners overlook a significant opportunity for long-term savings when they outright eliminate all equipment expenditures.  Many purchases require an initial investment, but provide reduced costs over time.  One such purchase is energy optimization equipment, which allows business owners to reduce their overall utility costs and reduce maintenance downtime and repair costs. 

Tax Incentives for Green Energy Purchases

The “Worker Homeowner and Business Assistance Act of 2009” was introduced by the federal government in November 2009.  Intended to stimulate the economy by providing tax relief for both businesses and homeowners, the Act modifies how businesses can carry Net Operating Losses (NOL). 

NOL refers to deductions granted for expenses that surpass a company’s gross income. Previously businesses could carry their NOL for only three years, but the Act extends that period to five years.  NOL-eligible companies may be entitled to quick tax refunds that they can spend on energy improvements. 

Meanwhile tax breaks for “green energy” improvements encourage business owners to invest in upgrades that make both structures and equipment more environmentally friendly:

  • Adding or replacing insulation
  • Upgrading old windows to energy-efficient ones
  • Installation of LED lighting
  • Placement of environmentally friendly energy sources

Initially these tax breaks were to be offered only through the end of 2008.  However, due to the current financial crisis, the federal government opted to extend the tax credit program.  The program will continue only until the government runs out of funding for the program.

Advantages of Investing in Energy Improvements

Given the current economic incentives for investing in green energy improvements, now is really the best time for businesses to invest in energy improvements.   Although the tax credits themselves are an excellent reason to go green, the long-term savings afforded by energy optimization are also excellent. 

  • By decreasing electrical waste directly from the breaker, energy optimization increases overall energy efficiency.
  • Replacing current appliances with energy efficient ones can drastically decrease power bills for the entire lifetime of the appliance.
  • Energy-efficient lighting produces less heat and uses less electricity, for amplified savings. 

Because these government programs were instituted in the interest of economic stimulus, they have a limited life span.  Business owners who want to benefit should take advantage as soon as possible.

]]> http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2010/03/01/energy-saving-opportunities/feed/ 0 What is Power Factor Correction? http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2010/01/26/what-is-power-factor-correction/ http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2010/01/26/what-is-power-factor-correction/#comments Tue, 26 Jan 2010 14:23:15 +0000 tecvbloxenergy http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/?p=122 Power factor correction is an easy way for consumers and business owners to optimize their electricity usage and significantly reduce their electricity bills.  Yet this method of energy conservation is often overlooked because few people understand how it works. 

An Overview of Power Factor Correction

Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power used by a circuit.  When someone plugs an appliance into an electrical supply, the power factor varies based on the amount of electricity that the appliance requires.  That fluctuation causes instability in a home’s power grid and leads to wasted electricity. 

To reduce this waste and regulate the power factor, a power factor correction capacitor (PFCC) can be installed. The capacitor enables the electrical system to run more efficiently, so that less electrical input is necessary to power the home or business.

The device attaches to the main service entrance, the electrical panel, the equipment itself or all three, depending on the desired level of regulation.

Proper Installation of PFCC’s

If the main reason for correcting the power factor is to lower electric bills, the PFCC can be placed at the main service entrance.  This “fixed bank” approach improves the power factor and reduces electric bills.  But this method can also shorten the lifespan of the PFCC, particularly if the power usage varies daily.  

A better plan for homes and businesses where power needs fluctuate frequently is to place PFCC’s directly on the equipment itself, or to install an AutoTune system at the main service entrance or breaker box.  It is important to have a qualified professional assess individual building needs and build a corresponding strategy for power factor correction. 

Advantages of Power Factor Correction

Because power factor correction streamlines the function of the electrical system, it has multiple financial advantages for consumers and business owners:

  • Reduced electrical usage, which lowers electric bills
  • Elimination of power factor penalties on power bills
  • Longer life for electrical appliances, reducing replacement costs
  • Potential eligibility for green building tax credits and other government incentives

It is important to note that PFCC’s are not surge protection.  To maximize the benefits of power factor correction, it is best to pair PFCC’s with a comprehensive surge protection system, such as a Transient Voltage Surge Suppression (TVSS) unit. 

Consumers can use power factor correction to supplement their other energy conservation efforts.  The result will be added savings on electrical bills and longer life for electrical equipment.

]]> http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2010/01/26/what-is-power-factor-correction/feed/ 0 Total Energy Concepts Gives Back to the Communities That Support Them in Their Green Initiatives http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2010/01/04/total-energy-concepts-gives-back-to-the-communities-that-support-them-in-our-green-initiatives/ http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2010/01/04/total-energy-concepts-gives-back-to-the-communities-that-support-them-in-our-green-initiatives/#comments Mon, 04 Jan 2010 22:07:58 +0000 tecvbloxenergy http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/?p=107 Every year many businesses in communities around the country support our Total Energy Concepts Green Initiatives by installing energy optimization and power factor correction units to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption. And each year we at Total Energy Concepts are proud to give back to the communities that give so much to us.

This year is no different. We are proud to share that this year the following organizations received sizable cash donations to support their cause.

  • McLean County Resource Center - North Dakota 
  • Ruth Meyers Hospitality House - North Dakota
  • Sharing and Caring Hands - Minnesota 
  • Harry Chapin Food Bank - Florida
  • St. Matthew’s House - Florida
  • American Business Club BSO – Illinois
  • Northern Illinois Food Bank – Illinois

We are so happy to be able to help make a difference in so many lives. A few of the organizations have shared their thanks with us and we would like to share them with you.

Harry Chapin Food Bank Thank You

“On behalf of Harry Chapin Food Bank’s Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, and especially our neighbors in need, thank you for your extremely generous donation, received on December 8, 2009 . Your donation will be utilized to provide food to those in need this holiday season. Due to our ability to multiply every donated dollar by six dollars, your donation has a food value of $12,000.00 and will provide the community with 7,491 pounds of food.” – Al Brislain Executive Director

Ruth Meiers Thank You

“Thanks so much for taking time out of your busy day to deliver your generous donation to Ruth Meiers Hospitality House. It was a pleasure to meet you & I’ll be sure to tell Dean “Hi” when I see him for Christmas. Happy Holidays!” – Kelly Director of Development

We hope everyone had a safe a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Let’s make 2010 a great year…a green year!!!

]]> http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2010/01/04/total-energy-concepts-gives-back-to-the-communities-that-support-them-in-our-green-initiatives/feed/ 0 Top 10 Benefits of Total Energy Concepts’ Energy Optimization System http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2009/10/11/top-10-benefits-of-total-energy-concepts-energy-optimization-system/ http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2009/10/11/top-10-benefits-of-total-energy-concepts-energy-optimization-system/#comments Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:17:57 +0000 tecvbloxenergy http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/?p=30 Top 10 reasons why businesses choose the Total Energy Optimization System from Total Energy Concepts

1.  15% savings in energy consumption. You save a minimum of 15% on electrical usage, guaranteed in writing.

2.  No new money required. In most cases, installation does not require new money; you simply redirect money you’re already spending.

3.  Quick return-on-investment. 1st year R.O.I.s range from 41% to 92%.

4.  15-year warranty. The total energy optimization system comes with a 15-year warranty and requires no maintenance.

5.  100% customer satisfaction, money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied after 36 months, you’ll receive a full refund (less any realized energy savings).

6.  40% reduction in electrical maintenance and downtime. The Total Energy Optimization System decreases electrical maintenance, repair and downtime on contactors, reactors, lights, ballasts, motors & compressors by up to 40% annually.

7.  Increased efficiency. The Total Energy Optimization Power Factor Correction Unit increases the efficiency of motors from a normal 70-80% to 95-99%.

8.  Tax savings. Normally, a very significant tax deduction can be taken the year that the system is installed.

9.  Umbrella of protection. The system protects against utility company surges, internal surges and lightning strikes.

10.  Go green. Supports your efforts to become more green and more environmentally friendly.

If you have additional questions or would like to schedule an energy assessment contact us.

]]> http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2009/10/11/top-10-benefits-of-total-energy-concepts-energy-optimization-system/feed/ 1 A Look Into Power Factor Correction http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2009/09/21/a-look-into-power-factor-correction/ http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2009/09/21/a-look-into-power-factor-correction/#comments Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:58:13 +0000 tecvbloxenergy http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/?p=20 What is Power Factor?

Power Factor is the measurement of how efficient your facility is using the power that is being supplied by the utility company. When looking at an individual piece of equipment, the Power Factor of that piece of equipment is the expression of its operating efficiency. For example, if the Power Factor measured at the equipment is 75%, then that piece of equipment is only operating at 75% efficiency.

How is Power Factor Measured?

Power Factor, no matter where it is measured, is simply the relationship between the True Power that is being delivered to the facility and the Apparent Power, which is the actual power that is being consumed by the equipment and is measured by a meter that can differentiate that relationship. The utility measures power factor as a ratio of the true power measured by the wattmeter, versus the apparent power which is a function of the Voltage and Amperage.

What is a PFC Unit?

A PFC unit is a device consisting of capacitors that supply the reactive current needed for the magnetic fields in motors right at the motor itself. The PFC unit is unique in the fact that it is sized exactly for the operating load and increases the power factor to almost unity, which is 100%.

What if my Power Factor is already close to 100%?

If you have a Capacitor installed on the Main Service of your facility, chances are your power factor reading is pretty good. But, a capacitor only works from the point of installation back to the source of power (transformer), so your utility bill might show a high power factor, but in reality, the Power Factor, or efficiency inside your facility will be lower.

]]> http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2009/09/21/a-look-into-power-factor-correction/feed/ 0 Welcome to Total Energy Concepts Energy Blog http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2009/08/19/welcome-to-total-energy-concepts-energy-blog/ http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/2009/08/19/welcome-to-total-energy-concepts-energy-blog/#comments Thu, 20 Aug 2009 01:52:03 +0000 tecvbloxenergy http://www.totalenergyconcepts.com/blog/?p=6 Good Day to everyone and welcome to Total Energy Concepts Energy Blog. Total Energy Concepts was founded in 2003 to help business owners save money through reduced energy consumption by utilizing surge protection and power factor correction units. Total Energy Concepts is V-Blox’s top distributor and marketing and sales training partner.


The goal of our blog will be to share and discuss the energy and green industries latest and greatest news and updates. If there is a specific topic you would like our Energy Specialists to address, please send us an email at tecvblox@gmail.com.

The first item I would like to share with our energy enthusiasts is our You Tube Channel, www.YouTube.com/user/TECVBloxEnergy. You can see the Presentation of the Heart Beat of America Award given to the manufacturer, V-Blox.com, along with the Light Bulb Test and Introduction video to the V-Blox products.

We look forward to hearing from you. Stay turned for more energy news and make it a great day!

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