Voltage Optimisation at the Royal College of Music

The Royal College of Music recently completed a planned shutdown of the Grade II listed Blomfield Building to install voltage optimisation equipment aimed at reducing energy consumption and protecting electrical systems.

EnergyAce was commissioned to supply and install the equipment, which is housed in the pavement vaults in front of the building. UK Power Networks (UKPN) attended the site to carry out a high-voltage power shutdown to allow the installation to proceed safely. In parallel, RCM worked with Artic Building Services to install surge protection equipment.

The project was led by Anette Ollerearnshaw, Head of Projects, Facilities and Operations, and involved close coordination across teams from Estates, IT, Maintenance, Facilities, Security, as well as staff from Imperial College London and key contractors. Careful planning ensured that life support systems, building management controls, and lift services were safely restored following the shutdown.

Anette said, “For the first time in RCM’s history, we powered down our Grade II listed Blomfield Building and installed voltage optimisation kit that will protect vital equipment whilst reducing our incoming voltage and carbon footprint. In addition, we were able to carry out crucial life safety and disaster recovery exercises to ensure we protect our students, staff and visitors. My thanks to all my colleagues and our contractors who helped successfully deliver the project.”

Although it is still early to quantify the full impact, initial reports indicate that electrical equipment is running cooler, and the College will verify energy savings over the year using strategically placed submeters and its Energy Management System. These measures are expected to deliver a reduced carbon footprint, improved protection for key electrical equipment and infrastructure, and enhanced testing of disaster recovery and life support systems.