A Shift towards reliable and efficient distribution transformers in India

With the rising cost of generation of electricity the focus is shifting towards energy-efficient transformers.

The Indian distribution transformers market is expected to expand at a CAGR of over 4 percent by 2025. Factors like increase in energy demand from the industries and the concept of expansion of transmission and distribution system are projected to drive the distribution transformers market. However, delayed implementation of projects and its timely completion owing to the government policies and government procedures will further derail the speed that is expected to boost the growth and demand for distribution transformers in India. 

Government schemes like Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) for strengthening and enhancement of sub-transmission distribution infrastructure in rural areas, involve an increased demand for distribution transformers in the future. Also, the Integrated Power Development Scheme (IPDS) for fulfilling the power demand of urban areas add to the demand for the transformers.

The latest trend in distribution transformers is to make energy efficient transformers complying with BIS/BEE standards. The use of low loss CRGO material or new technology like AMDT, etc. is being used in manufacturing of transformers. Now-a-days various equipment like MCCB, Internal Circuit Breaker, theft proof LT enclosure etc. are also being used so that failure of transformer due to overload can be minimised. Due to steep rise in the prices of copper and problem of theft in remote areas, the manufacturing of distribution transformers is gradually shifting towards aluminium by using new technologies like foil winding etc.  

Apart from above use of Dry type transformers, compact substations, transformer filled with ester oil are also being promoted in crowded areas/cities to minimise accidents due to fire. The manufacturing of inverter duty transformers for solar application is also gaining ground due to increase in production of renewable energy. 

The utilities are now focusing more on post-dispatch inspections and third-party testing of selected samples to ensure proper checking of material supplied so that the targets of energy efficiency are well achieved. 

There is a well-known saying that “energy saved is energy generated”, hence with the rising cost of generation of electricity the focus is shifting towards energy efficient transformers as per norms specified by BEE and BIS. With the penetration of electricity in all households due to various schemes of Government of India the demand for electricity is going to rise exponentially in coming years, which will result in increased demand for reliable and energy efficient distribution transformers. 

With increased penetration of electric connections in remote/rural areas the problem of theft of electricity resulting in damage of transformers is also increasing, hence the need of low cost innovation and technology like smart metering, use of protection equipment like MCCB/ICB attached to remote monitoring system should be encouraged. 

Many other innovations such as sensors and smart meters with remote control facility are under development to prevent failure due to overloading/theft of electricity in both new transformers as well as old transformers.

Expertise shared by: Alok Agarwal, Director, Uttam Bharat Electricals India Ltd.