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Diversity Factor Calculator

Work out diversity factor instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.

About Diversity Factor Calculator

Diversity factor is the sum of individual maximum demands divided by the actual system peak, and it is always at least one because those individual peaks do not coincide. Its reciprocal, the coincidence factor, is what a designer multiplies the summed load by when sizing a shared feeder.

Formula

Diversity

diversity factor = sum of individual maxima / coincident system peak; coincidence factor is its reciprocal

Worked example

With the default values below, Diversity Factor Calculator returns Diversity factor of 1.5238. Change any input above and every figure here is recalculated in your browser.

Inputs used

Sum of individual maximum demands
320 kW
System coincident peak
210 kW
Number of consumers
12 units

Results

Diversity factor
1.5238
Coincidence factor
0.6563
Capacity saved by diversity
110.00 kW
Average peak per consumer
26.67 kW

Step by step

  1. 1Values used
  2. 2Diversity
  3. 3Diversity factor= 1.5238
  4. 4Coincidence factor= 0.6563
  5. 5Capacity saved by diversity= 110.00 kW
  6. 6Average peak per consumer= 26.67 kW

Assumptions and limits

  • The result is derived only from the 3 inputs listed above. Anything not among them is not part of the calculation.
  • In particular, this calculator does not take inflation, tax, fees or charges or compounding frequency into account.
  • Figures are rounded for display to 4 decimal places, so totals built from several rounded parts can differ slightly from the unrounded arithmetic.
  • Electrical results are planning estimates only. Verify against the applicable wiring rules (IEC 60364, BS 7671, NEC or local code) and have all installation work designed and checked by a qualified electrician.

How these calculators are built and tested is described on the Methodology page. If a figure looks wrong, please report it.

Electrical results are planning estimates only. Verify against the applicable wiring rules (IEC 60364, BS 7671, NEC or local code) and have all installation work designed and checked by a qualified electrician.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is diversity always at least one?

Because the system peak can never exceed the sum of individual peaks, and in practice it is lower since not everyone peaks at the same moment.

Where does diversity come from in a housing scheme?

Cooking, heating and appliance use are spread across the day. A block of 20 flats might show a diversity factor of 3 or more on the incoming supply.

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