Sustainable Savings: The Business Case for Track Busway Systems

Every minute of downtime costs the average data center $8,851, and reconfiguring power infrastructure can be a logistical nightmare.

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Businesses across the globe are under constant pressure to reduce operational costs while meeting the demands of modern infrastructure. One innovative solution transforming power distribution in data centers, manufacturing plants, and commercial buildings is the track busway system. These modular systems not only enhance energy efficiency but can also deliver significant cost savings over time, helping companies stay competitive in a challenging economic landscape.

Real-World Success Stories: Savings by the Numbers

The University of Oxford’s Shared Data Centre in the United Kingdom illustrates the financial impact of adopting track busway systems. By replacing traditional hard-wired 32-amp commando sockets with Starline’s Track Busway system, the university eliminated costly downtime during equipment reconfigurations. Previously, rewiring efforts required professional electricians and halted operations—a financial burden many businesses face. With the track busway system, Oxford's facility significantly reduced these expenses while gaining flexibility for future upgrades.

In the United States, Legrand’s Starline solutions have demonstrated similar advantages. Their recyclable aluminum and copper busway systems have helped data centers achieve sustainability goals while optimizing power distribution. By minimizing energy losses and simplifying maintenance, businesses save money on utility bills and labor costs while reducing their environmental footprint.

How Track Busway Systems Help Businesses Save

  1. Lower Installation and Maintenance Costs:
    Track busway systems reduce installation time by up to 50% compared to traditional wiring systems. Pre-fabricated modular components simplify setup, while tap-off units make it easier to add or relocate equipment without the need for rewiring or professional electricians.
  2. Minimized Downtime:
    In fast-paced industries like manufacturing and IT, downtime can cost companies thousands of dollars per hour. With plug-and-play functionality, businesses can make quick adjustments without disrupting operations.
  3. Energy Efficiency:
    Track busways offer superior energy efficiency compared to cable-and-conduit systems. Their enclosed design reduces energy losses, and many systems use advanced materials like recyclable aluminum and copper to further enhance performance. Over time, these efficiencies can lead to significant savings on electricity costs.
  4. Flexibility for Scaling Operations:
    Businesses facing fluctuating demands often need to reconfigure their power systems. Track busway systems make this process straightforward and cost-effective, avoiding the need for expensive infrastructure overhauls.

Sustainability as a Business Strategy

Beyond cost savings, track busway systems align with growing sustainability mandates. Many companies now recognize that environmental stewardship isn’t just good for the planet—it’s also good for business. For example, adopting energy-efficient solutions like Legrand’s recyclable busways can improve a company’s public image, attract eco-conscious customers, and help secure government incentives or grants tied to green initiatives.

Several companies are at the forefront of advancing track busway systems in 2025, offering cutting-edge solutions for flexible and efficient power distribution. Starline, a division of Legrand, remains a global leader with its plug-and-play modular busway systems, trusted by data centers and manufacturing facilities worldwide. Eaton, with its PowerWave 2 Busway System, focuses on intelligent, scalable power solutions designed for mission-critical environments like data centers. Additionally, C&S Electric Limited and KDM Steel are driving innovation in sustainable, compact track busway systems, meeting the demands of industries seeking cost-effective and energy-efficient infrastructure.

The Takeaway

For businesses grappling with rising costs and evolving operational needs, track busway systems offer a practical and cost-effective solution. Whether it's saving money through reduced downtime, cutting energy bills, or future-proofing facilities, these systems deliver measurable benefits.

Environment + Energy Leader