How to Choose Supply Voltage Based on Electrical Demand

How to Choose Supply Voltage Based on Electrical Demand

When choosing a supply voltage for electrical devices or systems, consider electrical demand and other factors that can affect performance and efficiency.

Steps to choose the right supply voltage based on electrical demand:

  • Assess the electrical demand of your devices or systems. Consider manufacturer-specified power, current, and voltage ratings.
  • Consider standard voltage. Discover your industry’s standard voltage. Most countries have residential, commercial, and industrial voltage standards. Single-phase systems use 120V, 240V, and 480V, while three-phase systems use 208V, 380V, and 415V.
  • Think efficiency. Higher supply voltages lower current levels, reducing resistive losses in electrical conductors. However, device efficiency is crucial. Certain voltages may optimise equipment performance. For maximum efficiency, consult the equipment specifications or manufacturer.
  • Consider voltage drop. Distance between power source and equipment. Long wire runs can cause voltage drop, lowering equipment voltage. Long-distance voltage drop is less of a problem with higher supply voltages.
  • Make sure the supply voltage meets safety standards. For safety, some applications require specific voltage levels.
  • Consider future scalability. If you expect expansion or new equipment, consider the supply voltage’s scalability. Avoid costly electrical infrastructure upgrades by choosing a higher voltage level that can support more devices and systems.
  • Consult experts. Electrical engineers or other experts can help you determine the right supply voltage for your application. They can offer advice tailored to your needs.

Electrical equipment must be operated safely and efficiently with the right supply voltage. Consider efficiency, safety, and electrical demand before making a decision.

As per OERC Supply Code 2019

Rule-133.(i) The declared frequency of A.C. supply is 50 Hz.
(ii) The declared voltage of A.C. Supply is as follows:
(a) Low Voltage – Single phase, 230 V, between phases and neutral or three phase, 400 volts between phases.
(b) High tension supply – Three phase at 11 KV or 33 KV between phases.
(c) EHT supply – Three phase above 33 KV between phases – 132 KV/220KV between phases in two phase system of Railway Traction.

134. (I)The voltage of supply shall be determined by the engineer depending on the contract demand of the consumer. The supply voltage for the contract demands shall normally be as follows.

Supply voltage selection

Provided that licensee/supplier, at its discretion, may also supply at any other voltage depending on system availability or condition.

(II) Power supply to multi-storeyed buildings, residential apartments, multiple duplexes/simplexes etc. developed by the promoter.
(i) All such projects need to have prior approval of competent authority.
(ii) The promoter on its own cost shall develop the infrastructure required for effecting power supply to consumers and handover to the licensee/supplier on deposit of necessary charges. Alternatively, the cost of such infrastructure may be deposited with the licensee/supplier and licensee/supplier shall be responsible for installation, maintenance, repair/replacement etc. thereafter.
(iii) The power supply shall not in any way affect the right of a person residing in the housing unit sold/leased to demand power supply directly from the licensee/supplier.