In one aspect, an apparatus, such as an electrical system, is provided. The electrical system can include a pair of conductors across which an arc is sporadically supported, the arc including load current from a load circuit. The electrical system can also include an energy source that is separate from the load circuit and configured to selectively charge an electrode assembly. The conductors and electrode assembly can be configured such that the arc, when present, will be lengthened or constricted due to the charge on the electrode assembly.