A power detection circuit includes a sense element to convey current from a source to a load, a compensating reference element located proximate to the sense element, a comparator, and a precision current sink. The comparator includes a first input coupled to the sense element, a second input coupled to the compensating reference element, and an output. The comparator is configured to assert a signal on the output in response detecting that a first voltage on the first input equals a second voltage on the second input. The precision current sink is coupled to the second input of the comparator and is configured to pull constant current through the compensating reference element based on a predetermined power threshold.