Local council aims to cut emissions through voltage optimisation

Reigate & Banstead Borough Council (RBBC) has installed voltage optimisation units at sites in Surrey in a bid to meet a target of reducing carbon emissions by 30% by 2014, against a 2008 baseline.


The project forms part of the council’s carbon management programme, with 50% of the funding provided by public sector energy efficiency fund Salix.

Manufacturer Marshall-Tufflex Energy Management was commissioned to install the Voltis voltage optimisation units, which monitors incoming voltage and power demand and adjusts to maximise power savings, at Reigate Town Hall, where it is anticipated to generate electricity savings of about 10%, and at the Harlequin Theatre, Redhill. A third installation is currently being considered for a local leisure centre.

RBBC environmental initiatives officer Raymond Dill, said that despite initial doubts the units have produced good savings.

He said: “I still had my doubts but looked at the savings predicted from Voltis and considered that even if it delivered half of those savings it would achieve the required five-year pay back criteria. We trialled it and were pleasantly surprised – I am happy with it and the savings are good.”

Carys Matthews

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