• • • SENSORS&SENSING SYSTEMS • • •


heat transfer, enabling more compact transformer designs without compromising reliability. Across these applications, one thing is clear:


The energy transition is not just increasing transformer volumes, it’s redefining performance expectations at the component level.


Supply pressure and


shifts in feedstocks The rapid pace of electrification is putting pressure on transformer supply chains, including insulating liquids. Currently, around 90 per cent of transformer oils are still derived from crude-based feedstocks. However, to meet growing industry needs, the industry will need to diversify its raw material sources. Renewable and alternative feedstocks, including bio-based materials and chemically compatible recycled streams, are becoming increasingly important. At Nynas AB, our ambition is that by 2035, 30


per cent of sales volume will come from renewable feedstocks. This isn’t just a sustainability objective, it’s a resilience strategy. By developing parallel production pathways beyond traditional crude streams, capacity can expand without relying solely on conventional refining assets.


The importance of circularity One of the biggest innovations we’re seeing in transformer production is the emergence of true circular models. Each year, significant volumes of transformers are decommissioned, but the


Innovation and the future Over the next decade, innovation in transformer materials will be driven by two converging forces: accelerating electrification and sustainability. Oil formulations will continue to evolve to accommodate greater volatility, compact designs and harsher environments. But the most significant shift will be the ability to deliver equivalent, or even superior, performance from alternative raw materials, including bio-based and recycled streams. Transformers may not dominate conversations


insulating oil inside them is often still in good condition. Traditionally, most of this material has either been downcycled or used as fuel, a loss of both value and embedded carbon. A more sustainable approach involves collecting


used transformer oil, carefully separating it from degraded lubricant streams and re-refining it back to high-quality insulating fluid. When managed correctly, these oils can be chemically reset and returned to service with a performance comparable to virgin products. This circular approach improves supply security,


reduces dependence on crude-derived feedstocks and lowers lifecycle emissions. The chemistry is proven. The challenge lies in disciplined implementation, whether it’s the collection and segregation of the oil or the logistics and reprocessing involved.


around Europe’s energy transition, but they remain foundational to its success. Ensuring that the materials inside them evolve with changing grid requirements is vital for us to build a resilient, scalable and sustainable electric future. As the industry braces itself for greater electrification, specialist events and platforms will be crucial. For example, CWIEME Berlin brings together leaders from across the Transmission & Distribution (T&D) ecosystem, and this year’s event will include a Transmission & Distribution Club. This is an exclusive lounge dedicated to Transmission System Operators (TSOs), Distribution System Operators (DSOs) and grid equipment manufacturers. It will provide a forum to discuss grid innovation, power transmission and energy distribution.


https://berlin.cwiemeevents.com


YOU CAN ACCESS 3,000+ TOOLS RIGHT HERE!


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