ABSTRACT
Capacitors provide tremendous benefits to distribution system performance. If applied properly and controlled, capacitors can significantly improve the performance of distribution circuits. Capacitors are simple devices: two metal plates sandwiched around an insulating dielectric. Utilities often install substation capacitors and capacitors at points on distribution feeders. Most feeder capacitor banks are pole mounted, the least expensive way to install distribution capacitors. While most capacitors are pole mounted, some manufacturers provide pad-mounted capacitors. Substation capacitors are normally offered as open-air racks. Normally elevated to reduce the hazard, individual capacitor units are stacked in rows to provide large quantities of reactive power. Substation capacitors may also be desirable if a leading power factor is needed for voltage support. In addition to reducing losses and improving voltage, capacitors release capacity. One of the main benefits of applying capacitors is that they can reduce distribution line losses. Losses come from current through the resistance of conductors.
