Voltage Reduction Test

ISO New England will be conducting its Spring system-wide voltage reduction test on Tuesday, May 3, 2016 with an alternate test date Thursday, May 5, 2016. This applies to all sub-transmission and distribution facilities only (35kV and below) and will allow ISO New England to assess compliance with ISO New England Operating Procedure No. 13, Standards for Voltage Reduction and Load Shedding Capability. The system-wide voltage will be reduced by 5% from normal voltage starting at 10 am and concluding at 10:30 am on this date.

CMP conducts these tests as part of our federal compliance requirements (similar to the Emergency Broadcasting System tests you hear on radio and TV). These system-wide voltage reduction tests are conducted twice per year; once in the Spring prior to Summer peak loads, and once in the Fall prior to Winter peak loads. Most electricity users are unaware of the tests as the reduced voltage level is still within the normal operating range.