What does it mean when a switch board is reading a negtive kvar?

When a switchboard reads a negative kVAR (kilovolt-ampere reactive), it indicates that the system is supplying reactive power back to the grid or load rather than consuming it. This typically occurs when the system is overcompensated for reactive power, often due to the presence of capacitors that exceed the inductive load requirements. Negative kVAR readings suggest that the power factor is leading, which can have implications for efficiency and utility charges.