Reducing network carbon emissions using reactive power from distributed generators

In the UK, there is concern over the increasing amounts of reactive power (Q) flows. The Transmission System Operator has noticed increasing amount of Q supplied to the distribution network by the transmission system. Allowing distributed generators (DG) to import Q, or to operate at unity power factor to reduce voltage and allow more connections at low costs is likely to make the situation worse. In the long term it will increase losses and costs. In many situations it is beneficial to use DG to supply the Q demand as it is usually located closer to network loads than conventional generation.