Effects of reduced voltage on the operation and efficiency of electric loads. Final report

Abstract

This two-volume report (Volume 2 is the Appendix) for RP1419-1 describes the efficiency of important power system loads as a function of voltage. RP1419 is divided into two phases: quantifying the energy consumption of electric load components as a function of supply voltage and providing a means for predicting energy changes as a function of voltage at the circuit level. In the first phase, a wide variety of loads have been tested at seven input voltages ranging from 100/200 to 126/252 volts (120/240-volt base). At each voltage level, equipment was required to provide identical outputs where appropriate (lighting equipment excluded). Furthermore, the effects of loading were considered. For loads without a well-quantified measure of output, such as electric ranges, appropriate measurable output quantities were developed. Subjective evaluation of performance was made if changes were obvious. To define proper test procedures and accuracy requirements, detailed test specifications were then prepared for each load component including the appropriate dependent and independent parameters to be monitored during the tests. Air conditioning equipment, heating equipment, and distribution transformers were tested by outside subcontractors because these items required highly specialized and elaborate test facilities. The complete set of test specifications and procedures is included inmore » this report.Utilizing the results gathered thus far in RP1419, a methodology has been proposed to estimate distribution system efficiency as it relates to the operating voltage level. This methodology will be developed and verified in Phase II.« less