Why is normal 208 wye not suitable?
Basically the specs for the equipment such as large pumps are typically 220-240V AC 3PH Input/Output, so the idea is to convert existing service from '240' delta to '240' wye eliminating several 240D to wye transformers, without the POCO needing to special order anything and minimal work other than re-configuring the service drop and entrance.
I suppose one could do 220Y127 but thats non standard L-L voltage and L-N.
I dont even think the NEC would require the neutral past the service disconnect if everything stayed '240'.
Even if it could be converted to 208 more work would be needed, larger conduit for increased wire size, leads to larger pull boxes etc or a step up transformer would be needed, defeating the purpose of this.
With the 240Y139 idea '240' is standard voltage in the NEC and the 139 is simply not used.
In theory LED lighting drivers with their 100-277V could operate at 139 but I'd keep everything 240V as it is now off the corner grounded.
For the small amount of 120V service/maintenance receptacles there could be a buck transformer off the 139 but whatever is existing is fed off 240.
I don't know what is common, but if the transformers used for 480/277 banks would happen to be able to be re-jumpered in same manner then you would have a unit with ~139 volts at the output
Hmmm thats interesting thanks
and thanks everyone for the discussion.