Introduction:
Power factor (PF) is the ratio of real power (kW) to apparent power (kVA). In modern lighting, LED drivers are non-linear loads, so true PF includes both phase shift and harmonic distortion. Low PF inflates current, heats cables and transformers, consumes kVA capacity, and in some GCC jurisdictions can impact billing or compliance. This guide summarizes practical PF targets across GCC utilities and shows how high-PF LED lighting protects cost, capacity, and compliance.
Why Power Factor Matters:
Why it matters:
- Lower current for the same lumen output → reduced I²R losses and cooler gear.
- More spare capacity in panels, feeders, transformers, and gensets (sized in kVA).
- Smoother voltage profiles and fewer flicker/nuisance trips when dimming.
- Meets common GCC utility expectations (typically ≥0.9, often ≥0.95 in design).
Technical Basics:
Worked Example:
PF basics (quick refresher):
- Displacement PF (cos φ): Phase shift between voltage and current (sinusoidal case).
- True PF (λ): Includes both displacement and distortion from harmonics; it is the value your power analyzer reports.
- LED drivers: Look for PF ≥0.95 and THDi ≤10–20% at nominal load; require curves over dimming range.
Worked example (3φ, 400 V, 50 Hz, 20 kW held constant):
- Current I = P / (√3·V·PF). At PF 0.60 → ~48.1 A/phase. At PF 0.95 → ~30.4 A/phase.
- Heating ∝ I²R, so 0.60 PF case causes ≈2.5× the copper losses vs 0.95 PF.
Specification Checklist for LED Drivers:
Spec checklist for commercial LED lighting:
- Driver PF ≥0.95 @ 230 Vac (full load); ≥0.90 @ ~50% load.
- THDi ≤10% at full load (≤20% across dimming).
- Compliance with IEC/EN 61000‑3‑2 (harmonics) + relevant safety marks (ENEC/CE/CB or UL).
- Published PF/THD curves vs. load and dimming; verify at your dim levels.
GCC Utility Expectations (Quick Reference):
| Country / Emirate | Utility / Authority | Typical PF Expectation | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| UAE – Dubai | DEWA | ≥0.95 lagging recommended; maintain between 0.95 and unity at PoC | See DEWA Major Projects Guidelines (2017/2018). |
| UAE – Abu Dhabi / Al Ain | ADDC / AADC | Maintain ≥0.90 at LV; typical target 0.9–1.0 | ADDC campaign & design guides. |
| UAE – Sharjah | SEWA | PF correction required; typical minimum around ≥0.9 | Refer to SEWA regulations & 2019 summaries. |
| UAE – Northern Emirates | EtihadWE (ex-FEWA) | ≥0.92 lagging at connection point in many cases | See FEWA/EtihadWE regulations. |
| Saudi Arabia | Saudi Electricity Company (SEC) | Practice emphasizes ≥0.90; tariffs/penalties may apply below thresholds; some segments trending to 0.95 | SEC guidance & regulator updates. |
| Qatar | KAHRAMAA | 0.9 lagging to unity | Wiring Code & 2023 Conservation Code. |
| Bahrain | Electricity & Water Authority (EWA) | Not less than 0.9 | EWA PF Improvement Requirement. |
| Kuwait | Ministry of Electricity & Water & RE (MEWRE) | Maintain 0.95 lagging to unity (system PF); luminaires ≥0.90 | MEW R-1 (2013/2014) Section 12 + Clause 314 table. |
| Oman | APSR / Nama Distribution (MEDC, Mazoon, Majan, Tanweer) | Commonly ≥0.9; OES-4 requires PF ≥0.9 for certain equipment | OES-4 regs and Distribution Code context. |
References (Selected):
Selected references (verify latest before design):
- DEWA Major Projects Guidelines (2017/2018): PF ≥0.95.
- DEWA Regulations for Electrical Installations (2017): overall PF 0.9–1.0 (0.95 recommended).
- ADDC campaign: maintain PF 0.9–1.0; LV minimum 0.9 (Design Guidelines excerpt).
- EtihadWE/FEWA regs: typical PF ≥0.92 lagging at connection point.
- SEWA regulations (2019 summaries): PF correction required.
- KAHRAMAA Wiring Code & 2023 Energy & Water Conservation Code: PF 0.9–1.0.
- EWA (Bahrain) PF Improvement Requirement: PF not less than 0.9.
- Kuwait MEW R‑1 Sixth Edition: Section 12 mandates 0.95–1.0; Clause 314 lists PF targets incl. luminaires ≥0.90.
- Oman OES‑4 (Nama/APSR): PF ≥0.9 for discharge lamps & A/C; maintain ≥0.9 through normal operating range.
About Lumican:
Lumican supplies branded, high‑PF LED drivers and luminaires. Ask for a free PF & lighting audit: we’ll review your BOQ, estimate kVA/current reductions, and match high‑PF options.
