A Variable Speed Drive or Variable Frequency Drive is another energy savings tool that building stakeholders can utilize to control the speed/frequency of a motor. A Variable Speed Drive reduces the output (kilowatts) that a motor uses per hour. In conjunction with a Building Automation System, a Variable Speed Drive is very helpful in automating the capacity at which your motor is running at specific times of the day.

As an example, if you’re managing a condominium where your Make Up Air Unit is running at 100 percent throughout the evening, installing a Variable Speed Drive with your Building Automation System will enable you to control the output at specific times of the day (i.e. in the evening) when 100 percent power isn’t required. The result is reducing your energy consumption and costs while maintaining a comfortable environment for your occupants.