Voltage Optimization for Ohio Facilities: When It Pays
The short answer
Voltage optimization lowers the voltage delivered to your equipment — within the range equipment is designed for — so that some loads use less power. Savings are real but limited to voltage-sensitive loads (older lighting, some resistive heating, lightly loaded motors) and are often smaller than vendor brochures suggest. Modern LED drivers and variable-frequency drives regulate their own power, so they save little. Verify with metered before-and-after data, not a spreadsheet estimate.
How it works
U.S. service voltage is designed to stay within the ANSI C84.1 range (commonly ±5% of nominal at the service entrance). Many sites receive voltage toward the high end. A voltage optimization unit (a transformer or electronic regulator) trims it to the lower part of the range. Loads whose power draw falls with voltage then use less energy.
Which loads respond
| Load type | Response to lower voltage | Expect savings? |
|---|---|---|
| Incandescent / older magnetic-ballast lighting | Uses less power (and gives less light) | Yes, modest |
| Resistive heating | Less power, but runs longer to reach setpoint | Little net savings |
| Lightly loaded induction motors | Lower losses | Some |
| Fully loaded motors | Draw more current to deliver the same work | No; may run hotter |
| LED lighting with modern drivers | Driver compensates | Little |
| Variable-frequency drives, computers, electronics | Regulate internally | Little |
When it's worth a look
- Measured service voltage consistently near the top of the ANSI range.
- A large share of load in older lighting or lightly loaded motors.
- No near-term plan to retrofit lighting to LED (which usually delivers more savings for the money).
How to verify a vendor claim
- Log voltage and power at the service for at least two weeks before installation.
- Ask for the savings estimate broken down by load type.
- Use an on/off test: alternate the unit in and out of service on comparable days.
- Normalize for weather and production — see savings measurement.
- Check equipment warranties and minimum-voltage requirements.
FAQ
Does voltage optimization work?
For voltage-sensitive loads, yes; for sites dominated by LED lighting and drives, savings are usually small.
Does lowering voltage reduce demand charges?
It can reduce peak kW slightly for responsive loads; it doesn't address the timing of peaks.
Is it safe for equipment?
When voltage stays within the ANSI range and equipment specifications, generally yes; verify for sensitive motors and process equipment.