i can answer the second question.. its a "hull" buff, when your shields are taken down.. torps do a bit less damage (always good)

as to the first.. im not entirely sure myself.. i couldnt tell if i had an increase to power levels due to other traits, or if actions or abilities "cost" a little less power of whatever type was being used.

it would be nice to get an official answer so alot of us arent wondering anymore