Reactive energy charges in Turkey: limits and the bill
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Short answer
In Turkey, a reactive energy charge applies to all measured reactive energy once the limits in article 13 of EPDK’s tariff procedures are exceeded. It does not apply to residential, lighting, single-phase or connections with an installed capacity of up to 15 kW (15 kW included). On the tariff table of Board decision 14461, in force from 4 April 2026, the charge on filled cells is 349.3698 kuruş per kVArh excluding taxes; a later board decision replaces the table.
This guide explains the reactive energy charge in Turkey, where GenieBlocks operates. The figures come from EPDK’s consolidated tariff procedures and the tariff table in force from 4 April 2026.
What reactive energy is
Reactive energy is energy exchanged with the grid by loads such as motors and transformers. It does not perform work and is measured in kVArh. Active energy is the consumption shown on the bill in kWh.
Power factor is the ratio of active power to apparent power. It falls as reactive energy rises. Power factor correction is the system used to balance reactive energy.
Who is exempt
Article 13 of the consolidated procedures on the EPDK portal (decision 5999-3, as amended by Board decision 10961 of 28 April 2022) does not apply the reactive tariff to:
- residential connections,
- lighting,
- single-phase connections,
- connections with an installed capacity of up to 15 kW (15 kW included).
On the table of Board decision 14461, the reactive cell is empty for residential, lighting, general lighting, families of martyrs and disabled veterans, and transmission system users. The cell is filled for industry, public and private services and other, agricultural activity, and generation (single-rate, dual-rate, and unlicensed 1 and 2).
The limits
The limit depends on installed capacity and on whether reactive energy is imported or exported. The shares are of active energy.
| Installed capacity | Consumption (import) | Export |
|---|---|---|
| Below 50 kVA | 33% of active energy | 20% of active energy |
| 50 kVA and above | 20% of active energy | 15% of active energy |
If a limit is exceeded, all measured reactive energy enters the tariff. The bill is not limited to the amount above the threshold.
The first breach and the 35-day cap
The first breach in a calendar year is shown on the bill and deducted on the same bill. The line can appear, and the amount is then taken off.
If the reading period is longer than 35 days, the reactive energy charge is limited to 35 days.
The unit price
Board decision 14461 is dated 2 April 2026. The table applies from 4 April 2026 and excludes taxes. Where the reactive cell is filled, the charge is 349.3698 kuruş per kVArh.
Active energy, distribution and capacity charges are not copied into this guide. A later board decision replaces the table. The current table is on EPDK’s tariff tables used for electricity bills.
Where to look on the bill
On a commercial bill, reactive energy can appear in kVArh and as a separate charge line. How to read the index, multiplier and consumption is covered in How to read an electricity bill in Turkey.
Check:
- Is the connection one of the article 13 exemptions (residential, lighting, single-phase, 15 kW or below)?
- Is installed capacity below or at and above 50 kVA?
- Do reactive import and export exceed the shares of active energy above?
- If they do, is the charge based on all measured reactive energy?
- Is this the first breach of the calendar year, and did the reading run past 35 days?
This content is not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Who is exempt from the reactive energy charge?
Under article 13, the reactive tariff does not apply to residential, lighting, single-phase or connections with an installed capacity of up to 15 kW (15 kW included). On the tariff table, the reactive cell is empty for residential, lighting and general lighting rows.
What are the limits below and above 50 kVA?
Below 50 kVA, the limit is 33% of active energy for consumption and 20% for export. At 50 kVA and above, those shares are 20% for consumption and 15% for export.
What is billed when a limit is exceeded?
All measured reactive energy enters the tariff, not only the amount above the limit. The first breach in a calendar year is shown on the bill and deducted on the same bill.
What if the reading period is longer than 35 days?
Under the procedures, when a reading covers more than 35 days the reactive energy charge is limited to 35 days.
Does the unit price change?
Yes. 349.3698 kuruş per kVArh is the charge on Board decision 14461, in force from 4 April 2026, excluding taxes. A later board decision replaces the table. The current table is on EPDK’s tariff page.
Sources
How you do this in GenieBlocks
In GenieBlocks, power factor and reactive consumption can be followed before the billing period ends. Whether a charge applies, and for what amount, is set by the meter reading of the company that issues the bill and by the current tariff table.
How the platform helps
- Reactive Power & Penalty RiskPower factor, compensation threshold and likely penalty.
- Invoice TrackingTracking and checking the invoices issued to the site.