Voltage Reduction/Optimisation
In the UK the average L-N voltage is 242 Volts which although within BS EN 50160 regulatory levels is in fact quiet high when considering that the majority of equipment is designed to operate at 220-230V +/- 10%. This higher voltage is actually having two negative effects;
- A: Reducing the life expectancy of the connected equipment i.e. a 230V rated lamp operating at 240V will achieve only 55% of its rated life” (failing after 550hrs instead of 1000 hours)*.
- B: Increased energy consumption i.e. a 230V linear appliance used on a 240V supply will take 4.3% more current and consume almost 9% more energy*.
* Extracts from IEE 16th edition guide BS7671.
By reducing the supply voltage it is possible to achieve typical kWh savings in the region of 10-15% (dependent on the types of load applied). There are two ways to achieve this voltage reduction either through the installation of voltage optimisation equipment or simply reducing the output voltage from your supply transformer. However prior to utilising either of these options it is strongly recommended that an electrical survey be conducted.