Volt/VAR Optimization

Volt/VAR Optimization & Control is an advanced function that determines the best set of control actions for all voltage regulating devices and Var control devices to achieve a one or more specified operating objectives without violating any of the fundamental operating constraints (high/low voltage limits, load limits, etc.).

Volt/VAR Optimization includes Conservative Voltage Reduction (CVR) function that is used to calculate and maintain acceptable voltage (e.g. 120 V +/- 5%) at the service entrance of all customers served by the feeder under all possible operating conditions. CVR is used to flatten voltage profiles and lower overall system voltage while staying within the specified ANSI or IEC voltage limits. Overall system demand can be reduced by a factor of 0.7-1.0% for every 1% reduction in voltage. From a consumers perspective, this reduces the energy they consume. From a utility perspective it reduces the amount of power they need to generate or purchase from a generator.