Fast ROI for energy saving solution in educational institutions
Every budget decision matters. And when energy efficiency improvements can deliver a fast return on investment, it’s something worth considering.
Voltage optimisation (VO) offers schools, colleges, and universities a straightforward way to reduce energy bills while protecting valuable equipment. The best part? The payback period is typically short, meaning that the initial cost can be recouped quickly, and ongoing savings start benefiting the budget right away.
What is voltage optimisation?
Voltage optimisation is a technology that regulates and adjusts the voltage supplied to your buildings. In the UK, the National Grid often delivers more voltage than necessary, around 242 volts on average, while most equipment in schools and educational facilities only needs 220 volts. The excess can lead to energy wastage, shorter equipment life, and higher maintenance costs. VO acts as a filter to lower the voltage, reducing waste and ensuring equipment runs efficiently, helping to cut energy consumption.
Short payback period
The key advantage of voltage optimisation is how quickly it pays for itself. On average, educational institutions can see a return on investment within 1 to 3 years, depending on the size of the facility and the energy savings achieved. For schools, colleges, or universities with a large number of classrooms, labs, and other facilities, the savings can add up significantly.
Protecting your equipment
One of the less obvious benefits of voltage optimisation is how it helps extend the life of your equipment. Educational institutions rely on a variety of technology and excess voltage can strain this equipment, leading to breakdowns and higher maintenance costs. By optimising the voltage, you not only save on energy but also reduce wear and tear, helping your equipment last longer.
Schools and universities that invest in voltage optimisation often find their equipment requires less maintenance, which means fewer disruptions and lower repair costs.
More than just energy savings
While the financial return is undoubtedly the main attraction, voltage optimisation offers additional benefits for the education sector. Sustainability is increasingly becoming a priority, and reducing carbon emissions plays a significant role in meeting environmental targets. VO helps lower your institution’s carbon footprint by reducing energy consumption, making it an environmentally friendly solution.
In addition, with energy prices fluctuating, having a reliable way to lower consumption offers a buffer against future cost increases. It’s a safeguard that can help schools and universities protect their budgets from unexpected spikes in energy costs.
How to get started
The process of implementing voltage optimisation is easier than you might think. It starts with understanding the voltage levels in your facility, and that’s where tools like Troo Volt come in. This free, simple-to-use tool allows you to measure the voltage in your classrooms and buildings 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 facility.
Once your readings are assessed, you’ll have a clear idea of the potential savings, helping you decide whether it’s the right step for your school or university. No pressure, just practical advice to support your decision-making process.
Final thoughts
Voltage optimisation offers a rare opportunity for educational institutions to achieve tangible savings with minimal upfront costs. With energy prices remaining high, it’s a solution that can significantly impact your budget in both the short and long term. Whether your focus is on cutting energy costs, extending equipment life, or meeting sustainability goals, voltage optimisation is a valuable step towards greater efficiency.
Ready to explore potential savings for your institution?