A groundbreaking sensor technology, known as the Transformer Watchman, has received the prestigious 2023 R&D 100 Award in the category of IT/Electrical. Developed by NETL (National Energy Technology Laboratory), in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh and Sensible Photonics Inc., this innovative technology promises to safeguard the nation's energy infrastructure, prevent service downtime, and potentially save billions of dollars while preserving lives.

Grid transformers, vital components of the energy infrastructure, are susceptible to degradation, failure, and security threats. A significant portion of these transformers in the U.S. is more than 25 years old, contributing to power outages that cost the nation $150 billion annually.

To address these challenges, the Transformer Watchman was created—an integrated fiber optics-based sensor system that continuously monitors dissolved gases, acoustics, and temperatures of transformers. This real-time monitoring system provides early warnings of potential dangers, ensuring the reliability of power delivery.

Sean Plasynski, NETL acting director, described the R&D 100 competition as the "Oscars of Innovation" and emphasized its importance in showcasing the work of brilliant scientists and engineers. The Transformer Watchman not only enhances current infrastructure performance but also supports the development of future technologies.

Implementing this system across the U.S. grid and globally could result in significant savings in repair costs and time, as well as the prevention of disastrous failures, ensuring the continuous operation of critical components such as hospitals, traffic signals, and communications.

Furthermore, the Transformer Watchman can contribute to the decarbonization of the power sector and address the effects of climate change by enhancing the reliability and predictability of the power grid during the integration of renewable energies.

This groundbreaking technology marks a major step forward in ensuring the resilience, stability, and security of the electric power grid, making it a valuable asset for the future of the energy sector.

Source: netl.doe.gov