Over the next 30 years, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) expects consumers to save $12.9 billion because of new energy efficiency standards for distribution transformers. The new standard, known as DOE 2016, goes into affect on January 1, 2016, and applies to low voltage dry type distribution, medium voltage dry-type distribution, and liquid-filled distribution transformers. On April 18, 2013, the DOE amended the energy efficiency standards (TP1) for distribution transformers. The new DOE 2016 standard aims to reduce energy consumption, creating cost savings for consumers and creating a positive environmental impact. According to the DOE, the new standard will reduce electrical losses by approximately eight percent for liquid-immersed transformers, 13 percent for medium-voltage dry-type transformers, and 18 percent for low-voltage dry-type transformers. In addition, approximately 264.7 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions will be avoided, which is equivalent to the annual greenhouse gas emissions of 51.75 million automobiles. CBT partner Hammond Power Solutions (HPS) is helping local manufacturers migrate their transformers to the new, higher-efficiency design beginning in the second half of 2015. HPS has gathered information on a dedicated DOE 2016 page to help you understand the new standard and how it will impact your business.
The New Transformers
According to HPS, the new transformers will be 30 to 35 percent more efficient than TP1 transformers. DOE 2016 transformers will cost more than TP1 transformers, however, the expected cost savings will offset the higher price. According to an article in Rockwell Automation’s The Journal, upgrading a 75kVA transformer to a DOE 2016-compliant transformer can save more than $23,000 over 30 years.
FREE WEBINAR: The Basics of Upcoming U.S. DOE Transformer Legislation
Want to learn more about DOE 2016 and how it impact you? This free, on-demand webinar, sponsored by HPS and Rockwell Automation, brings you up-to-date on the DOE 2016 requirements, including what specifications must be updated, how the increased efficiency will raise the cost of transformers, and the economic benefits of the new transformers. HPS is CBT Company’s August Vendor of the Month. Please contact us to learn more about what HPS and CBT can do for you.
