Power transformers energy efficiency programs: A critical review

Transformers are strategic assets in the electrical networks, playing an important role in achieving the ambitious energy efficiency targets set by the most industrialized countries. Considering Europe only, hundred terawatthours (corresponding to several megatons of CO2) are wasted every year through no load and load losses. Although transformers are among the most efficient electrical devices, even slight improvements in their energy performances shall be highly valued, considering the amount of installed units and the fact that they are designed to operate for decades before being replaced. In this context, energy performances can be regarded as a crucial accelerator for the penetration of new ideas and innovative solutions in the transformers business. In this paper, the present energy performance programs running in different countries are reviewed, paying particular attention to the European market.