What is the main function of AC shore power voltage regulators?

The primary function of AC shore power voltage regulators is to maintain voltage. This is crucial in marine environments where shore power is connected to a vessel's electrical system. Voltage regulators ensure that the voltage supplied to the onboard equipment remains within a prescribed range, despite fluctuations that may occur on the shore power supply.

When a vessel is connected to shore power, variations in the supply can be caused by load changes on the grid, which could lead to voltage spikes or sags. The voltage regulator mitigates these variations, protecting sensitive electronic devices onboard from damage due to overvoltage conditions and ensuring that all electrical systems operate efficiently and effectively.

In contrast, while maintaining frequency can be important in AC power systems, especially for synchronizing generators, voltage regulation specifically targets the aspect of voltage stability. Current measurement and power flow regulation also play roles in electrical systems, but they do not define the primary function of a voltage regulator in this context, which is focused entirely on delivering a stable voltage supply to the vessel.