Conservation Voltage Reduction

Conservation Voltage Reduction

May 08, 2024

The INCON® Distribution Transformer Monitor (DTM) provides continuous, meter-grade precision performance monitoring of high-value, mission critical, low voltage pad mount and conventional pole mount transformers. With its ability to monitor key metrics like voltage, current, power factor, and phase angle at the distribution transformer level, the DTM provides utilities with crucial insights for Conservation Voltage Reduction (CVR) initiatives.

IMPLEMENTING CVR AT THE EDGE

CVR is a strategic approach to energy conservation that focuses on regulating voltage levels throughout the power distribution network. By maintaining optimal voltage levels, CVR aims to minimize energy losses, improve equipment efficiency, and enhance overall grid performance. Traditionally, utilities faced challenges in precisely monitoring and controlling voltage at the edges of their networks, where distribution transformers play a pivotal role. The DTM can provide utilities with the tools they need to identify and monitor energy usage at the very edge of their networks.

OPTIMAL VOLTAGE CONTROL

Voltage Levels: Monitoring voltage at the distribution transformer level allows utilities to ensure that voltage levels are within the desired range and dynamically control voltage levels with precision. This precision is vital for optimizing energy distribution and reducing unnecessary energy losses.

LOAD BALANCING

Current Levels: Measuring current at the distribution transformer level helps utilities understand the load distribution across the network. This information is crucial for load balancing, preventing overloads, and ensuring that transformers operate within their capacity limits.

EFFICIENT ENERGY CONSUMPTION

Power Factor: Power factor measurement is essential for evaluating the efficiency of energy consumption. By assessing how effectively electrical power is converted into useful work, utilities can identify areas for improvement and enhance overall system efficiency.

POWER FACTOR CORRECTION

Phase Angles: Maintaining a consistent phase relationship between voltage and current is essential for energy efficiency. Monitoring phase angle helps in maintaining a power factor close to unity, which is crucial for streamlined energy distribution.

The availability of real-time data on power factor, voltage, current, and phase angle empowers utilities to make informed decisions. This data-driven approach enhances the utility’s ability to respond to changing conditions and implement strategies for continuous improvement.

The INCON™ DTM is a cutting-edge monitoring system that leverages advanced technologies, including wireless sensors and cloud-based analytics, to provide real-time monitoring and analysis of transformer performance. It allows utilities to detect potential issues before they escalate into major problems, improving the reliability of their electrical grids and reducing maintenance costs.

With the ability to monitor and trend transformer output voltage, loading (current) by phase, temperature, and Power Factor for an entire network of transformers, utilities are armed with powerful information regarding power distribution and equipment maintenance.

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