An Extra-Low Voltage system is a type of electrical setup that uses less power compared to traditional systems. As per International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), these systems prioritize safety, efficiency, and integration into modern building management systems (BMS). Some of the examples of usage of ELV systems include:
Extra-Low Voltage (ELV) systems are being used more and more in buildings around the world. They are special electrical systems that use very little electrical power to work, making them safer, cheaper, and better for the environment
ELV systems are in high demand because of how beneficial they are. According to survey’s it is being predicted that ELV market will grow by 7.2% every year from 2023 to 2030, reaching about $81 billion by 2030. This means more homes, offices, and even whole cities will use these systems in the future.
Places like Asia, where cities are expanding quickly, and North America and Europe, where safety and energy rules are strict, are leading the way in using ELV systems.
Today buildings use up a lot of energy—about 28% of all the world’s energy-related CO2 emissions come from them. ELV systems are helping to fix this problem. They use smart tools to cut energy use by up to 30%.
For example:
By saving energy, ELV systems help people spend less on electricity while also protecting the planet
Safety is one of the biggest reasons people use ELV systems. These systems power things like security cameras, alarms, and door locks that use fingerprints. Because they run on very low electricity, they are less likely to cause shocks or fires.
Technology is making life easier as more and more homes and offices are becoming “smart,”. ELV systems are at the heart of this trend. From 2023 onwards, more than half (57%) of new buildings in cities were designed to include smart features that rely on ELV.
These systems power:
Office buildings integrate these systems for seamless communication (VoIP), energy-efficient lighting, and robust security. They reduce operational costs by 15–20% annually through smart energy management.
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Smart homes benefit from Extra-Low Voltage systems for automation, controlling everything from lighting to HVAC systems via smartphones. Over 45% of new homes in urban areas now incorporate ELV-based home automation
Hospitals depend on these systems for nurse call systems, automated lighting, and temperature-controlled environments. These systems also ensure uninterrupted operations during outages, improving patient safety.
Manufacturing plants use ELV for process monitoring, energy-efficient lighting, and access control. By implementing ELV solutions, they can cut downtime costs by up to 25%.
By 2030, it is predicted that 70% of ELV systems will incorporate Internet of Things (IoT) technology. This integration will allow systems to:
This shift toward smarter systems will make ELV solutions indispensable in modern buildings, ensuring energy efficiency and reliability.
The growing demand for environmentally friendly buildings, particularly those meeting certifications like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), is driving ELV adoption. These systems are essential in achieving the energy-efficient designs required for green buildings:
This trend will further boost ELV adoption as part of the global push toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Unlike traditional systems, ELV frameworks are modular, allowing businesses to add or upgrade components easily, keeping pace with technological advancements.
With the rise of cloud-based platforms, managing ELV systems is becoming easier and more efficient. These platforms allow facilities managers to control ELV-powered devices—such as lighting, security, and access systems—from a centralized dashboard. Benefits include:
The convenience of remote management is making it a standard feature in new ELV installations.
ELV systems represent a cornerstone of smart and sustainable infrastructure. From enhancing security to driving energy efficiency, these systems are vital for modern buildings. With the global ELV market set to expand rapidly, staying informed and adopting these technologies will be crucial for future-proofing infrastructure.
By investing in Extra-Low Voltage solutions, businesses and individuals can not only reduce costs but can also contribute to a safer, greener, and more connected world. Whether it’s a smart home or a commercial complex, ELV systems ensure a seamless blend of technology and sustainability.
For customized ELV solutions consider collaborating with industry leaders like NETS International for details. Contact us today to get started! We’ll help you plan and set up your ELV system, so your building is future ready.
