We can conduct a thorough examination of your electricity capacity. Our aim is to ensure that you are accurately billed, ultimately saving you money that can be directed towards your priorities. Additionally, we offer guidance on meters and sites that would benefit from capacity reductions or increases based on your past bills.
What is Available Supply Capacity?
Available Supply Capacity (ASC) refers to the maximum amount of electricity that a business can draw from the power grid at any given time. This is measured in kilovolt-amperes (kVA) and is agreed upon between the business and the energy supplier. The ASC is crucial for ensuring that a business’s electrical needs are met without overloading the local power network. Managing ASC effectively helps businesses avoid excessive demand charges and ensures they have sufficient power for their operations, while also providing room for future expansion or increased energy usage.
What is kVa in simple terms?
Kilo volt-amperes or kVa for short, is a measure of the total amount of electricity being used. It is a measure of Apparent power assessing the efficiency of electricity used on site.
What happens if you exceed your kVA?
If a business exceeds its agreed-upon Available Supply Capacity (kVA), several consequences can occur:
- Penalty charges: The energy supplier may impose extra charges or penalties for surpassing the set capacity, which can increase operational costs.
- Overloading risks: Exceeding kVA limits can strain the electrical infrastructure, potentially leading to equipment malfunctions or failures.
- Supply disruptions: Persistent overuse may cause supply disruptions or outages, affecting business operations.
- Need for upgrades: The business may need to renegotiate the ASC with the supplier or upgrade its electrical infrastructure to accommodate higher demand, which can incur additional costs and logistical challenges
Reducing and increasing your Available Supply Capacity
You may wish to reduce your Available Supply Capacity because you are not getting close to your limit. This could be because you have a high ASC compared to your usage or because you have implemented energy efficiency on-site and no longer consume as much electricity. If that is the case, you may want to consider reducing your ASC and therefore paying less for the ASC your site requires. Our team can help liaise with your energy supplier to adjust your ASC contractually, ensuring it aligns with your reduced consumption needs.
Conversely, you may wish to increase your ASC if you need to consume more or are consuming more than in the past and are being hit with charges relating to overconsumption. We can support you in negotiating with your energy supplier to formally increase your ASC, ensuring it supports your business growth or increased energy requirements.
