Benefits of the TechnologyIn addition to the power savings and the other advantages which are normally realized by the direct user, there are a number of general economical, social and environmental benefits associated with the use of this technology.The power utilities will benefit directly from better power factor and better harmonic control. This leads to lower power line losses and better power system stability. Furthermore, this technology will provide the utilities with an alternate solution to load shedding. By remotely forcing customers to dim their lighting loads (similar to water heater control), they could minimize the need for peak power generation. The sociological benefits of the technology are derived from the improved quality of light and reduced audible noise. This translates into health and work environment dividends by preventing migraine and eye fatigue, and hence reducing absenteeism and improving productivity. The environmental benefits result from keeping existing magnetic ballast installations without replacing them by electronic ballasts, thereby avoiding the disposal of non recyclable refuse. Furthermore, the proper power management by utilities could reduce the need to build new peak power demand plants which are usually high polluters.
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