The kilovolt-ampere (kVA) is a unit for measuring apparent power in electrical systems.
Unlike kilowatts (kW), which measure the actual power consumed (real power), kVA accounts for both active power (useful) and reactive power (not consumed but essential for the operation of certain equipment). It is particularly relevant for sizing transformers, generators, and industrial installations.
Thus, kVA reflects the total capacity an electrical system can provide, irrespective of the efficiency with which this power is utilized. In a perfectly efficient network (power factor of 1), 1 kVA is equivalent to 1 kW.