What phase and wire type is typically utilized in smaller commercial setups?

In smaller commercial setups, the typical use of a 1 phase, 3 wire configuration is quite common because it provides a good balance of power delivery while handling the electrical load demands of such environments. This configuration generally consists of two hot wires and one neutral wire. This not only allows for efficient operation of standard single-phase equipment but also enables the use of 240-volt appliances, which are often present in commercial settings, without requiring a more complex three-phase system.

The advantages of a 1 phase, 3 wire system include simplified installation, reduced costs, and suitability for the lower power requirements seen in many small businesses or retail spaces. It allows for enough power to run typical equipment while being less complicated than three-phase setups, which are more commonly reserved for larger installations with significantly higher energy needs.