What is the general benefit of maintaining a high power factor?

Maintaining a high power factor is beneficial primarily because it reduces the overall electrical demand on the system and improves efficiency. A high power factor indicates that a larger proportion of the electrical energy supplied is being effectively converted into useful work, rather than being wasted as reactive power. This improved efficiency can lead to lower energy costs and reduced strain on electrical infrastructure, ultimately resulting in less energy consumption for the same output.

Furthermore, with a high power factor, the utility can deliver more real power (the power that performs useful work) with the same amount of apparent power (which includes both real and reactive power). Reducing overall electrical demand can also help in managing loads more effectively, minimizing losses in the distribution network.

In contrast, while a high power factor can lead to fewer generator needs and may influence infrastructure design, it does not directly eliminate the need for transformers or guarantee reduced energy consumption in absolute terms since that is related to other factors as well. Thus, option focusing on reduced demand and improved efficiency accurately reflects the key advantages of maintaining a high power factor.