A quick payback solution for cutting energy costs
When it comes to energy efficiency improvements, finding options that deliver fast returns on investment are worth paying attention to. Voltage Optimisation (VO) is one such solution, not only does VO offer manufacturers a straightforward way to reduce their energy bills and help to reduce wear and tear on key machinery. The payback period is typically short, with the initial cost being recouped quickly, and ongoing savings start adding up fast.
What is voltage optimisation?
Simply put, voltage optimisation is a technology that regulates and adjusts the voltage supplied to all of your equipment. Typically the National Grid delivers more voltage to each and every power outlet than is needed – around 242 volts on average while most equipment only needs around 220v to operate efficiently. The excess electricity is wasted energy, which you are paying for.
Not only does this extra electricity add to your bills, it reduces equipment lifespan, increasing the strain on equipment through wasted heat resulting in higher maintenance costs. VO filters out the excess energy as it enters your premises, lowering all of the voltage to an optimal level, ensuring equipment runs efficiently and cutting energy consumption. It’s a very practical solution for manufacturers looking to save on energy costs.
Short payback period
The great thing about voltage optimisation is how quickly it pays for itself. On average, businesses see a return on their investment within 1 to 3 years, depending on the size of the facility and the energy savings achieved. For manufacturers using heavy machinery or running processes around the clock, the savings can be substantial.
Protecting your equipment
Another often overlooked benefit of voltage optimisation is how it helps prolong the life of your equipment. When your machinery is subjected to excess voltage, it experiences unnecessary strain, which can lead to overheating, breakdowns, and costly repairs. By optimising the voltage, you’re not only saving on energy but also reducing the wear and tear on your valuable assets.
Manufacturers who invest in voltage optimisation often find that their equipment lasts longer and requires fewer maintenance interventions. In an industry where downtime can be incredibly expensive, this added benefit is hard to ignore.
More than just energy savings
While the financial return on investment is undoubtedly the main draw for manufacturers, voltage optimisation offers a host of other benefits. Reduced carbon emissions, for instance, are becoming increasingly important as businesses strive to meet sustainability goals. VO helps lower a facility’s carbon footprint by cutting excess energy consumption, which in turn supports broader environmental initiatives.
Moreover, with energy prices being notoriously unpredictable, having a reliable way to lower consumption gives manufacturers a buffer against future cost increases. It’s a safeguard that can protect your business from sudden hikes in energy prices, keeping your costs more stable over the long term.
Making the smart choice for your business
For manufacturers already operating on tight margins, voltage optimisation offers a way to regain some control over rising costs. The quicker your investment pays off, the sooner you can channel those savings back into your business, whether that’s through expanding operations, upgrading equipment, or simply improving profitability.
How to get started
The process of implementing voltage optimisation is simpler than you might think. It begins with understanding the voltage levels in your facility, and that’s where tools like Troo Volt come into play. This free, easy-to-use tool allows you to measure the voltage at your facility by plugging it into different sockets. You’ll need to take readings from three different points to get an accurate average, and once you have your data, you can send it to Troo for advice on whether voltage optimisation would suit your operations.
Once your readings are assessed, you’ll have a clear idea of the potential savings and can decide if it’s the right step for your business. There’s no hard sell here – just simple, practical advice to help you make the best decision for your facility.
Final thoughts
Voltage optimisation is one of those rare investments that provides tangible, ongoing savings with a minimal upfront cost. With energy prices remaining high and equipment costs on the rise, it’s a solution that can make a real difference to your bottom line in the short and long term. Whether you’re focused on cutting energy costs, extending equipment life, or both, voltage optimisation is worth considering.
Ready to see what kind of savings you could unlock?