Transformers: More than Meets the Eye

For the first time in over five years, the Department of Energy (DOE) has issued a proposed rule for new appliance standards. The rule would affect electric distribution transformers, equipment used mainly by utility companies at switching stations or on power poles to reduce electricity voltage levels for delivery to homes, businesses and industry. However, several energy efficiency groups, consumer advocates and nine major utility companies do not believe the new standard goes far enough.

The utilities, including Duke Energy, PNM Resources, Exelon, Public Services Electric and Gas, Pacific Gas and Electric, Baltimore Gas and Electric, New York Power Authority, Sacramento Municipal Utility District, and Snohomish Public Utility District #1 want a tougher standard which at least minimizes estimated lifecycle costs for equipment.

According to DOE’s own analysis, the stronger standard would save 459 billion kilowatt-hours and net $11.1 billion in savings, 50 percent more kilowatt-hours and roughly $1.7 billon more in savings than the federal government’s proposed weaker standard. In addition, the more efficient transformers often have a longer life span, improve electric grid reliability, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and can be implemented with technology already available on the market.

The proposed rule is open for public comments until October 18th, with the final rule expected to be issued in September, 2007.

Originally published in the October 2006 edition of e-FFICIENCY NEWS.