# The basics of our trade, explained simply.

> Event power distribution basics explained simply: stand-to-stand supply sharing, Twin zero-interruption generator sets, cable size, circuit breakers.

Source: https://www.darkside-energy.com/en/did-you-know/ · Dark Side Energy · Updated: 2026-10-06

Plenty of calculations explain electricity, but the aim of these articles is to help you understand the basics of our trade in simple terms.

## Understand before you plug in.

Did you know? · 12 October 2026 · 2 min

### [kVA or kW: what's the difference?](https://www.darkside-energy.com/en/did-you-know/kva-vs-kw/)

Active power, apparent power and cos φ: why generators and grid connections are rated in kVA.

Did you know? · 12 October 2026 · 2 min

### [What is the diversity factor?](https://www.darkside-energy.com/en/did-you-know/diversity-factor/)

Not all equipment runs at full power at the same time. The diversity factor avoids overcapacity.

Did you know? · 12 October 2026 · 2 min

### [How much power can you draw from a P17 socket?](https://www.darkside-energy.com/en/did-you-know/p17-socket-power/)

From 3.7 kVA for a 16 A single-phase socket to 277.1 kVA for a 400 A Powerlock: maximums, not targets.

Did you know? · 12 October 2026 · 2 min

### [Single-phase or three-phase: why balance the phases?](https://www.darkside-energy.com/en/did-you-know/balancing-phases/)

The most loaded phase sets the size of the source. Spreading equipment evenly avoids oversizing.

Did you know? · 8 May 2017 · 2 min

### [What is event power distribution?](https://www.darkside-energy.com/en/did-you-know/event-power-distribution/)

Every event is unique, and so is its set-up. And why *ilotage* (sharing a supply between stands) is banned at trade shows.

Did you know? · 8 May 2017 · 2 min

### [What is a Twin zero-interruption generator set?](https://www.darkside-energy.com/en/did-you-know/twin-generators/)

Two synchronised generators sharing the load: if one goes down, the other takes over, with no interruption at all.

Did you know? · 8 May 2017 · 1 min

### [Cable size depends on current, but also on length!](https://www.darkside-energy.com/en/did-you-know/cable-size/)

The longer the cable, the greater the voltage drop. Choosing the cable size takes planning.

Did you know? · 8 May 2017 · 1 min

### [Why does it “trip”?](https://www.darkside-energy.com/en/did-you-know/why-it-trips/)

30 mA RCD, circuit breaker: the distribution box has either saved your life or saved your installation.

## A project? Let's talk power.

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