Tuesday 26 May 2020

UK Power Networks unveils green transformers to help reduce carbon emissions

UK Power Networks has unveiled new green transformers to help reduce carbon emissions.

The country’s biggest electricity distributor is launching a long-term programme to swap electrical transformers for more energy-efficient models.

UK Power Networks is introducing state-of-the-art amorphous steel core transformers at substations, which are a key part of the infrastructure that delivers power to 8.3 million homes and businesses across the East of England, London and South East. These step down the voltage to safely deliver power from the national grid to local properties.

The replacement programme is part of UK Power Networks £500 million investment into the electricity network each year, and helps towards the country’s ‘Net Zero’ ambition.

The company has already installed more than 50 high-efficiency transformers as part of a collaborative trial. Now it is planning to replace, over time, about 15,000 transformers which will save more than 8,500MWh per year – enough to power approximately 2,700 homes - and result in a carbon saving of almost 2,200 tonnes annually.

The new models will be used for the majority of new construction projects, and where existing equipment needs replacing.

Paul Dyer, Senior Assets Engineer for UK Power Networks, said: “These amorphous steel transformers bring significant environmental benefits and their wider roll-out will be an important decarbonisation measure.

“This investment also helps reduce the energy that is usually lost while electricity is transported by 80%, and will play a key role in helping us cut carbon and deliver our Green Action Plan to improve local environments.”