
WASHINGTON, D.C. — New Rule Would Strengthen Grid Resiliency, Cut Carbon Emissions, and Deliver up to $15 Billion in Savings to the Nation
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced new energy-efficiency standards for three categories of distribution transformers to improve the resiliency of America’s power grid, lower utility bills, and significantly reduce domestic carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. DOE’s proposal represents a strategic step to advance the diversification of transformer core technology, which would conserve energy and reduce costs. Almost all transformers produced under the new standard would feature amorphous steel cores, which are significantly more energy efficient than those made of traditional, grain-oriented electrical steel. If adopted within DOE’s proposed timeframe, the new rule will come into effect in 2027.
“The Biden-Harris Administration continues to use every means available to reduce America’s carbon footprint while strengthening our security posture and lowering energy costs,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm. “Efficient distribution transformers enhance the resilience of our nation’s energy grid and make it possible to deliver affordable electrical power to consumers in every corner of America. By modernizing their energy-conservation standards, we’re ensuring that this critical component of our electricity system operates as efficiently and inexpensively as possible.”
According to the company, DOE estimates that the proposed standards, if finalized, would reduce U.S. CO2 emissions by 340 million metric tons over the next 30 years—an amount roughly equal to the annual emissions of 90 coal-fired power plants. DOE also expects the proposed rule to generate over 10 quads of energy savings and approximately $15 billion in savings to the nation from 30 years of shipments.
Source: ENERGY.GOV