What are capacitors connected in parallel in a distribution system called?

In a distribution system, capacitors connected in parallel are referred to as shunt capacitors. This terminology is used because these capacitors are added to the system to correct power factor and improve voltage stability by providing reactive power. When connected in parallel, shunt capacitors can effectively increase the overall capacitance of the circuit, allowing for improved performance of the electrical distribution system.

Shunt capacitors help to offset inductive loads that are common in distribution systems, such as motors and transformers, which tend to draw reactive power. By providing a source of reactive power, shunt capacitors reduce the amount of reactive power that must be supplied by the utility, thus improving efficiency and reducing losses in the system.

The other choices do not accurately describe this configuration or its function in the distribution system. Storage capacitors generally refer to devices used to store energy, series capacitors are connected in a sequence to increase voltage and are not used for reactive power compensation, and distribution capacitors is a more generic term that does not specifically relate to the parallel connection characteristic.