Where should voltage reduction for load reduction be performed?

The appropriate place to perform voltage reduction for load reduction is on the distribution system. This is because the distribution system is where electricity is directly delivered to end-users, such as residential and commercial consumers. By implementing voltage reduction in this area, the utility can effectively manage and reduce the overall load without significantly impacting the transmission network or causing instability in the higher voltage levels.

Voltage reductions on the distribution system are more manageable and can lead to immediate benefits in reducing demand during peak load periods. Additionally, it can assist in voltage support and improve the overall efficiency of power delivery to end-users.

In contrast, voltage reduction on the transmission system could lead to more complex challenges, including stability issues and the risk of under-voltage conditions at different points in the network, which may not be beneficial for overall system reliability. Reducing voltage at transmission capacitor banks or at the 230 kV level would generally focus more on voltage regulation and reactive power support rather than directly addressing load reduction. Therefore, targeting voltage reduction specifically on the distribution system aligns well with effective load management strategies.