Reactive power, also called "reactive power consumption," is the term used for the electricity flowing through an electrical system that does not directly contribute to actual work or energy production. This often refers to energy that is lost, for example, in inductive loads such as motors or transformers.

In technical terms, reactive current is the current required to generate magnetic fields in these devices, but it doesn't actually generate energy (as lighting or heating does). This is due to the phase shift between current and voltage in alternating current systems. 

Reactive power is often measured in volt-ampere reactive (VAR) and can be managed efficiently to avoid unnecessary strain on the electricity grid.