A variable speed drive (VSD) can be used to vary the voltage-to-frequency ratio (V/f) supplied to a compressor motor of a heating, ventilation, air conditioning or refrigeration (HVAC&R) system to make the motor stronger or weaker to compensate for varying conditions in the HVAC&R system. The VSD and corresponding control system or algorithm can monitor an operating parameter of the HVAC&R system, such as the kW absorbed by the motor, and then raise or lower the V/f of the VSD to obtain the lowest possible power consumption from the motor.