V.I. businesses could save as much as 12 percent on electric bills with top-of-the-line voltage optimization equipment, a move that could pay for itself in two to three years, given the territory’s high energy costs.
That was one of the more novel energy-saving notions V.I. businessmen and interested citizens heard Tuesday at a commercial and industrial energy conference put on by Quality Electric in partnership with the U.S. Energy Development in Island Nations-USVI.
The conference, held at Gov. Juan F. Luis Hospital, highlighted cost-effective, energy-saving strategies for commercial and industrial applications in tropical environments.
Some of the discussion highlighted strategies likely familiar to those who follow energy related news in the territory, such as switching over to more efficient air conditioners and buying expensive, but cost-saving LED lights. Conference speaker and WAPA Executive Director Hugo Hodge Jr. discussed alternative energy strategies at WAPA, such as the utility’s recent request for proposals for up to 10 megawatts of solar power production.
More novel, perhaps, was discussion of the possibilities for major savings just by installing solid-state voltage optimization equipment. Greg Wiegand, founder of Seattle-based MicroPlanet, said his company’s equipment saves users money by bringing voltage down to a lower, steadier level.
He added that reduced voltage fluctuation should also reduce repairs and replacement of appliances—from refrigerators to pumps with electric motors inside—as power spikes and dips reduce an electric motor’s life to a fraction of its normal span.
Some businessmen’s ears perked up, hearing Wiegand’s figures.
"When times are tough like they are now, you have to try anything you can to save a penny or two," said Anton Kuipers, general manager of Divi Carina Bay Resort and Casino. "The voltage-conditioning really looked like it could help us."
Both the potential energy savings and the possibility of protecting equipment intrigued Kuipers. "With all the equipment we have at the resort, that’s huge for us," he said.
This week’s conference grew out of a vendor’s expo held five years ago by Quality Electric, according to Kimberly McCollum, general manager of Quality Electric. The rising cost of electricity sharpened interest, and it grew every year from then, she said. This year, they are partnering with EDIN-USVI to take a more comprehensive approach at energy savings and optimization.
"We all have the same vision, which is reducing fossil fuel consumption," McCollum said.
Tuesday’s conference was an opportunity to discuss the concepts and ideas, she said. For those who want to find out more, some of the same vendors will have equipment on display Wednesday at Quality Electric in Peter’s Rest, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., she said.
Call (340) 773-4630 ext 322 for more information.
