Electrical Load Factor Calculator
Electrical load factor indicates how continuously an installation uses its peak demand capacity during a chosen period. It is a utilization metric, not the same as power factor or equipment efficiency.
How to use this calculator
- Enter average and peak real power for the same reporting interval.
- Check that units, denominator definitions and time periods are consistent before comparing scenarios.
- Run a second scenario when an assumption is uncertain.
Formula used by electrical load factor calculator calculator
Electrical load factor (%) = average load / peak demand × 100.
- Electrical load factor (%) = average load / peak demand × 100.
- A result over 100% indicates that the average and peak values are inconsistent or refer to different windows or boundaries.
- The tool performs arithmetic on the values entered and does not validate assumptions against outside records.
Worked examples
Worked example
Average load of 38 kW and peak demand of 60 kW over one reporting period.
38 ÷ 60 × 100 ≈ 63.33%.
Load factor is approximately 63.33%.
Understanding the result
Electrical load factor indicates how continuously an installation uses its peak demand capacity during a chosen period. It is a utilization metric, not the same as power factor or equipment efficiency.
A result over 100% indicates that the average and peak values are inconsistent or refer to different windows or boundaries.
Important notes
A result over 100% indicates that the average and peak values are inconsistent or refer to different windows or boundaries.
Treat this output as an estimate tied to the stated inputs. For regulated, safety-critical, tax or professional decisions, verify applicable official guidance and specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Is load factor the same as power factor?
No. Load factor compares average and peak demand; power factor compares real and apparent power.
Can a higher load factor reduce costs?
It can indicate more even use, but tariff effects depend on the utility rate structure.
How should I interpret the result?
A result over 100% indicates that the average and peak values are inconsistent or refer to different windows or boundaries.
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Related explanations
Learn the method behind the number or compare the terminology before using the calculator.
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This page provides a calculation tool plus explanatory information so you can understand what the result means and when the underlying method may not fit your situation.