Voltage controllers ‘could save UK £300m’

Voltage controllers could help UK consumers save up to £300 million. The North West’s power network operator, Electricity North West (ENW), says the technology could reduce demand for electricity without […]

Voltage controllers could help UK consumers save up to £300 million.

The North West’s power network operator, Electricity North West (ENW), says the technology could reduce demand for electricity without creating a noticeable difference in supply, potentially saving consumers in the region £100 million over the next 25 years.

During a 12-month trial, the equipment was installed at 60 substations, serving around 10,000 customers.

Research conducted during this time showed customers didn’t notice any change in their electricity supply.

ENW has now awarded a contract to Schneider Electric to supply enhanced voltage controllers to be installed at up to 260 substations across the region.

The company says if the same approach was used to help balance electrical supply and demand across the whole of the UK, it could save around £300 million.

Steve Cox, Engineering and Technology Director at ENW, said: “We are always looking at ways we can use new technology to improve service and reduce costs for our customers.

“By reducing the voltage across the whole network at tiny levels which are unnoticeable to end users, we can save a significant amount of power for the region.”

Siemens has opened a dynamic grid centre to manage future transmission systems in Germany.

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