VOLTAGE OPTIMISATION: Separating Fact From Fiction For Efficiency & Savings

Voltage optimisation (VO) entails stabilising the voltage to ensure optimal levels for the load, while voltage reduction simply lowers the voltage. Merely lowering voltage does not constitute voltage optimisation. Several other criteria must be considered before claiming to offer voltage optimisation, which is why “fixed or guaranteed” savings cannot be accurate and must be analysed.

Voltage optimisation aims to improve our energy usage, assisting in net-zero goals, enhancing energy efficiency, and ensuring long term cost savings. However, it faces scepticism, especially in regions where power is easily available. The scepticism arises from unrealistic promises of achievable savings, often advertised as guaranteed savings with a fixed payback period.

Misconceptions on the effectiveness of Voltage Optimisation due to some companies misleading their customer, have diminished its credibility, despite its benefits when understood and implemented with clear and correct objectives. Voltage Optimisation and energy saving is based on science and absolute criteria. It is impossible to circumvent these to produce more savings.

The three most important criteria are:

1. Load or Equipment Type

2. The voltage level on site and the optimal voltage level the equipment will work at

3. Run time of the load or equipment (i.e. how many hours per day)

This technical bulletin explores different load types and their effectiveness with iVolt, the difference between Voltage Reduction and Voltage Optimisation, and the key benefits of iVolt over fixed step-down transformers and mechanical servo systems.

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Tel:	+44 (0) 1753 214 500
Email:	sales@ivoltsystems.co.uk

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