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Power Fundamentals

Reactive power

Reactive power supports electric and magnetic fields in AC systems and is typically measured in kVAR or MVAR. It does not perform useful work like kW, but it is essential for voltage control and can materially affect grid studies and power factor penalties.

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UPS topology

UPS topology describes the architecture used to provide ride-through and power conditioning, such as distributed redundant, block redundant, catcher system, or 2N. Topology affects efficiency, fault behavior, maintainability, and cost.

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eGRID

EPA's eGRID is a database of electric generation and emissions attributes by grid region and plant. It is useful for estimating location-based emissions, but users should understand reporting year, regional boundary, and market-based procurement differences.

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Economization

Economization uses favorable outdoor conditions to reduce mechanical cooling energy. The practical value depends on climate, air quality, humidity, water strategy, controls, and whether the system uses air-side, water-side, or refrigerant methods.

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