In 1995, European Voltage Harmonisation set UK nominal voltages from 216V to 253V (-6% to +10% of 230V).
The UK average voltage is 242V. Voltage Optimisation targets supplying electrical devices closer to the design voltage of 230V rather than the UK average of 242V.
Basic electrical law states power for certain loads is proportional to the square of the voltage. Exceeding the nominal harmonized 230V/400V may cause devices to consume more energy than necessary.
Voltage acts as pressure. Aligning it with the ideal 230V can reduce asset failure, enhance machinery efficiency, and lower energy consumption.
Voltage Optimisation is a transformer-based technology that uses a fixed ratio or multi-tap transformer to reduce the incoming voltage supply by a fixed percentage of the incoming grid supply.
The principal is based around supplying a more suitable voltage to the electrical device for it to perform its task more efficiently.
Changing the site voltage by tapping down existing transformers can be achieved, however, installing VO can offer additional benefits. VO normally offers a greater range of adjustment to target a higher level of savings and is inherently more efficient with less losses than traditional supply transformers.
Voltage Management Systems are also a transformer-based technology that uses a dynamic tap to ensure the transformer voltage output remains stable regardless of the load and supply voltages. These systems are typically higher in cost than the traditional VO system as they are tailored to suit the site requirements.
This can lead to greatly reduced energy consumption, leading to a more optimised building and lower energy costs.
Understanding and managing load dynamics leads to savings through reduced kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumption, optimising energy use and lowering costs.
Optimising load dynamics decreases peak demand on the electrical system, measured in kilovolt-amperes (kVA), reducing costs and enhancing efficiency.
Decreasing demand also reduces the need for reactive power, potentially lowering associated charges on electricity bills.
By lowering kWh consumption, businesses can significantly reduce CO2emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability efforts.
Load dynamics optimisation reduces wear and tear on equipment, decreased maintenance expenses and improved reliability.
