A controller for actuating a load includes first and second supply connections. The first supply connection is connected to a high supply voltage potential or the second supply connection is connected to a low supply voltage potential. A controllable switching element is connected between the supply connections. A control unit is connected to the controllable switching element. A control signal transceiver is connected to the first supply connection and to the control unit. A first voltage supply unit is connected to the control signal transceiver. A second voltage supply unit with an energy storage element is connected to the control unit. A coil is connected between the first supply connection and the controllable switching element. A diode is connected to a connection point of the coil and the controllable switching element and to supply connections of the first and second voltage supply units.