Saving Megawatts with Voltage Optimization

Abstract

In September 2008, PCS UtiliData commissioned an Industrial Voltage Optimization system at the Plum Creek Timber Medium Density Fiberboard facility in Columbia Falls, Montana. The system was based upon the AdaptiVolt(TM) Volt/VAR Optimization system that had been installed at several electric utility distribution substations in the U.S. and Canada. These systems, being operated in Conservation Voltage Regulation mode, have provided significant energy conservation where they have been installed. Algorithms were developed to allow the system to operate with large synchronous motors without approaching pull-out torque points. After more than a year of operation the system has reduced demand at the facility by 3.72% with an annual energy savings of over 9,000,000 kWh per year at full production capacity. Based on verified energy savings Bonneville Power Administration paid Plum Creek over $337,000 for the project. This paper describes the voltage optimization system, the mechanism of energy conservation when voltage is optimized in an industrial facility and the measurement and verification method used to determine actual savings.