Global Transformers Market Overview, 2023-28

The transformers industry is a critical and often underappreciated sector that plays a pivotal role in ensuring the efficient and safe distribution of electrical power. These silent giants silently hum in substations and power stations, stepping up or stepping down voltage levels, making it possible for electricity to power our homes, businesses, and industries. The transformers market traces its roots back to the late 19th century when inventors like William Stanley and George Westinghouse pioneered the development of alternating current (AC) power systems. The invention of the transformer was instrumental in the widespread adoption of AC power, enabling long-distance electrical transmission. In the early 20th century, the electrification of the United States led to a surge in demand for transformers. Utilities and industries required transformers to step up voltage for efficient long-distance transmission and step down voltage for local distribution. The 1960s witnessed the development of high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems, which required specialized transformers. HVDC transformers play a critical role in transmitting power over long distances with minimal losses. Deregulation and market liberalization in the energy sector led to changes in how utilities operated. Transformer suppliers adapted to this new environment by offering custom solutions and services to meet the evolving needs of utilities. The 21st century brought about a significant shift toward digitization in the transformers market. Smart transformers, equipped with sensors and monitoring capabilities, emerged to enhance grid management, enable predictive maintenance, and improve energy efficiency. With the growing adoption of renewable energy sources, transformers have become essential for connecting intermittent energy generation, such as wind and solar, to the electrical grid. This has led to innovations in grid integration transformers. The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) and electrified transportation networks has led to investments in transformer infrastructure to support EV charging stations and ensure efficient power distribution. According to the research report, “Global Transformers Market Overview, 2023-28” published by Bonafide Research, the market is anticipated to cross USD 80 Billion by 2028, increasing from USD 57.63 Billion in 2022. The market is expected to grow with 6.33% CAGR by 2023-28. The ongoing global trend of urbanization, with more people moving to cities, has led to increased electricity demand. To support this growth, there is a continuous need for expanding and upgrading electrical infrastructure, including the installation of transformers in urban areas. The global shift toward renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, requires the use of transformers for power conversion and grid integration. Transformers are essential for connecting renewable energy sources to the electrical grid and ensuring the efficient distribution of clean energy. The modernization of electrical grids, including the deployment of smart grid technologies, necessitates transformers that can efficiently manage electrical power distribution. This includes the integration of digital monitoring, control, and communication capabilities in transformers. Stringent energy efficiency regulations and standards worldwide are driving the development of more energy-efficient transformers. Manufacturers are creating transformers that reduce power losses during transmission and distribution, contributing to overall grid efficiency. Governments and organizations are investing in electrification initiatives to extend access to electricity in remote and underserved areas. These efforts require the installation of transformers to expand the reach of the electrical grid and provide power to previously unconnected communities. Many existing transformers, especially in aging electrical infrastructure, require replacement or upgrading to improve efficiency and reliability. This presents opportunities for transformer manufacturers to supply modern, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly models.

Growing environmental awareness has led to a shift toward environmentally friendly transformers with reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Manufacturers are designing transformers that use eco-friendly insulating fluids and materials, aligning with sustainability goals. Transformers can be customized to meet specific voltage, power, and environmental requirements. This flexibility makes them suitable for a wide range of specialized applications, including industrial processes, renewable energy installations, and more. Ensuring a stable and reliable power supply, especially in the face of extreme weather events and natural disasters, is a priority. Grid resilience efforts drive the demand for transformers that can withstand adverse conditions and contribute to energy security. The growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and electrified public transportation systems requires investments in transformer infrastructure to support EV charging stations and electric transportation networks. The Transformers market in Asia Pacific is projected to witness a swift development pace, owing to the rapid industrialization and urbanization in China, India, and numerous emerging economies in the region. Additionally, massive investments by the governmental authorities in the development and establishment of energy and power infrastructure across remote areas is promoting the growth of power grid infrastructure. The efforts of the governmental authorities towards the refurbishment of power grids in the metropolitan and urban areas to meet the ever-increasing needs of these cities are the major factors citing the noteworthy boom in the market over the forecast period. In recent years, many Asian countries have witnessed a continuous expansion in power distribution networks to provide access to power-deprived communities and develop the existing power infrastructure in semi-urban areas. The countries with the highest power demand are China and India. The electricity consumption in India in 2021 was around 1191 TWh, whereas that of China was 6752 TWh. The nations plan to expand their electricity networks even more over the coming years. Government regulations play a significant role in the transformers market, ensuring the safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of transformers. These regulations are put in place to protect consumers, promote energy conservation, and maintain grid reliability. Governments worldwide have established energy efficiency standards and labeling programs for transformers. These standards specify minimum efficiency levels that transformers must meet, encouraging the production and use of more energy-efficient models. For example, in the United States, the Department of Energy (DOE) sets energy efficiency standards for transformers. Some regulations focus on the use of insulating fluids in transformers. In response to environmental concerns, governments encourage the adoption of eco-friendly insulating fluids, such as natural ester oil or synthetic esters, over traditional mineral oil. These fluids are biodegradable and have a lower environmental impact in case of leaks or spills. Governments set safety standards to ensure that transformers are manufactured and installed safely. These standards cover various aspects of transformer design, construction, and operation, including insulation, grounding, and protective devices. Compliance with safety standards is essential for the protection of both workers and the public. Grid operators and regulatory authorities often establish grid codes that transformers must adhere to. These codes specify technical requirements, including voltage levels, frequency, and grid connection standards. Transformers used in power generation, transmission, and distribution must comply with these grid codes to ensure grid stability and reliability. Based on type, the market is classified into distribution transformer, power transformer, and others. In 2022, the distribution transformer segment dominated the market as the demand for power increases in both rural and urban areas. Distribution transformers are highly beneficial to distribute power from large transformers to small transformers with the least amount of power loss. In addition to meeting the need for power during peak hours, utility companies are building distribution voltage regulators to enhance power consumption during off-peak hours. For instance, a distributor of discrete semiconductor components, Diotec Semiconductor, and Mouser Electronics Inc. formed a distribution deal in June 2022 by the contract. Mouser will provide customers with a selection of voltage regulators, rectifiers, FETs, and diodes from Diotec Semiconductor for commercial and industrial applications. For instance, the distribution network in Mexico's transformer capacity reached 1,14,807 MVA in 2021. The expansion of many other countries' transmission networks resulted in the extensive use of distribution transformers. Also, in April 2021, Italy-based power company Enel announced plans to enter the power distribution business in the US. The company has planned to invest around USD 19.52 billion in distribution networks over the next two years and USD 72.23 billion by 2030. Such developments strongly favour high market growth of distribution transformers over the near future.

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Manmayi Raval

Research Consultant

Closed-shell transformers, also known as closed-core transformers or shell-type transformers, have been a staple in the electrical industry for many years. Closed-shell transformers are known for their robust and reliable construction. Their core and winding assemblies are enclosed within a steel or iron housing, providing protection against external factors such as moisture, dust, and physical damage. This reliability makes them suitable for a wide range of applications, including industrial settings where durability is critical. Closed-shell transformers are designed for high efficiency and low core loss. Their closed-core configuration reduces magnetic flux leakage and minimizes energy losses, making them energy-efficient transformers. This efficiency is particularly important in applications where minimizing power losses is essential. These transformers are versatile and can be customized to meet various voltage and power requirements. They are used in both high-voltage and low-voltage applications, making them adaptable to a wide range of electrical systems. Furthermore, air-cooled transformers, also known as dry-type transformers, have been gaining popularity in various applications due to several compelling reasons, leading to their growth in the market. Air-cooled transformers use air as the cooling medium, eliminating the need for oil or other liquid insulating fluids. This makes them inherently safer and more environmentally friendly, as they do not carry the risk of oil leaks or fires, making them suitable for indoor installations and areas with stringent environmental regulations. Unlike oil-filled transformers, air-cooled transformers are non-flammable and do not pose a fire hazard. This feature is particularly important in critical applications, such as commercial buildings, hospitals, and data centers. Air-cooled transformers require minimal maintenance compared to oil-filled transformers. There is no need for oil testing, filtration, or oil replacement, reducing maintenance costs and downtime. Additionally, air-cooled transformers are not prone to oil degradation. Solid insulation materials are environmentally friendly and do not contain hazardous substances like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) often found in traditional oil-filled transformers. This aligns with global efforts to reduce the environmental impact of electrical equipment. Solid insulation eliminates the risk of oil leaks and fires associated with oil-filled transformers. This enhances safety, making them suitable for indoor installations, densely populated areas, and critical facilities like hospitals, data centers, and residential buildings. Solid insulation transformers require minimal maintenance compared to oil-filled counterparts. There is no need for regular oil testing, filtration, or oil replacement. This reduces maintenance costs and minimizes downtime, making them cost-effective over their lifespan. Solid insulation materials have a long service life and do not degrade or break down as quickly as oil. This results in transformers with extended operational lifespans, reducing the frequency of replacements. On the other hand, pole-mounted transformers, also known as pad-mounted transformers or distribution transformers, are experiencing growth and increasing adoption in the electrical industry. As urbanization and population growth continue, there is a need to expand and upgrade electrical distribution networks. Pole-mounted transformers are an efficient and cost-effective solution for extending power distribution to residential and commercial areas. Pole-mounted transformers play a crucial role in voltage conversion, stepping down high-voltage electricity from distribution lines to a safer and usable voltage for homes and businesses. Their efficient voltage conversion ensures a reliable power supply to end-users. Unlike larger substation transformers, pole-mounted transformers have a smaller footprint and do not require dedicated land or buildings. This makes them suitable for densely populated urban areas where available space is limited. Advances in digital technology enable remote monitoring and control of pole-mounted transformers. This allows utilities to perform real-time diagnostics, predictive maintenance, and fault detection, improving overall system reliability. As countries continue to industrialize, there is a growing demand for electrical power in manufacturing facilities, factories, and industrial complexes. Transformers are essential for stepping down high-voltage electricity from the grid to usable levels in these industrial settings. The manufacturing sector is a major consumer of electrical power. Transformers are crucial for powering machinery, equipment, and processes in industries such as automotive, steel, chemical, and food processing. The growth of these industries directly drives the demand for transformers. Industries are increasingly focused on energy efficiency to reduce operating costs and environmental impact. Energy-efficient transformers help industries optimize their energy usage, lower electricity bills, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Industrial facilities are increasingly incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines into their operations to reduce reliance on conventional power sources. Transformers are used to integrate renewable energy into industrial electrical systems. Industries are electrifying various processes to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Electric heating, electric boilers, and electric motors are examples where transformers are integral to the electrification of industrial processes. Transformer manufacturers offer a wide range of customization options to meet the specific voltage, power, and environmental requirements of different industrial applications. Customized transformers are tailored to suit the unique needs of each industrial facility. The rapid growth of data centers, driven by the digital economy, requires reliable power distribution systems. Transformers ensure that data centers receive a stable and uninterrupted power supply.

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Market Drivers • Decentralized Energy Generation: The rise of decentralized energy generation is a significant driver for transformers. Distributed energy resources (DERs), such as solar panels, wind turbines, and microgrids, are becoming increasingly popular. Transformers are essential for integrating DERs into the grid, ensuring that locally generated electricity can be efficiently distributed and balanced with centralized power generation. This driver is fueled by the desire for energy independence, reduced reliance on traditional utilities, and the potential for grid resilience during outages. • Hybrid and Multi-Voltage Grids: The development of hybrid grids that combine different voltage levels (e.g., high voltage and medium voltage) is a unique driver. These hybrid grids optimize the distribution of electricity and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. Transformers that can seamlessly transition between voltage levels and adapt to varying loads are in demand to support these evolving grid configurations. Market Challenges • Supply Chain Disruptions: A unique challenge that has become prominent in recent years is the risk of supply chain disruptions. The transformers market relies on the global supply chain for components and materials. Events such as trade disputes, natural disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted vulnerabilities in the supply chain, impacting manufacturing and delivery schedules. Ensuring a resilient and diversified supply chain is a complex challenge for transformer manufacturers. • Transition to Digital Grids: As grids become more digital and interconnected, there is a challenge in ensuring the compatibility of existing transformers with digital grid technologies. Retrofitting older transformers with digital monitoring and control capabilities can be complex and costly. Transformer manufacturers must address this challenge by offering solutions that bridge the gap between traditional and digital grid systems. Market Trends • Energy Storage Integration: The integration of energy storage systems (ESS) with transformers is a unique trend in the market. Transformers are key components in ESS installations, enabling the efficient charging and discharging of energy. This trend is driven by the increasing adoption of battery energy storage for grid stabilization, renewable energy time-shifting, and backup power. • Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Data analytics and AI are revolutionizing transformer maintenance and performance optimization. The trend involves using advanced analytics and machine learning algorithms to analyze vast amounts of transformer data. This data-driven approach enables predictive maintenance, early fault detection, and improved transformer lifespan, contributing to reduced downtime and operational costs. • Customization for Extreme Environments: Another emerging trend is the customization of transformers for extreme environments. This includes transformers designed to operate in extreme cold, desert heat, offshore and marine applications, and high-altitude locations. Customized transformers are engineered to withstand temperature extremes, corrosive environments, and unique challenges posed by these locations. Covid-19 Impacts A global economic slowdown brought on by the epidemic has resulted in less money being invested in industrial and infrastructure projects. This has affected the need for transformers across a number of industries, including building, manufacturing, and the energy industry. The shipping of transformer equipment and parts has been delayed as a result of trade restrictions, temporary manufacturing closures, and transportation issues. The epidemic caused numerous construction projects, such as those for building infrastructure and transmitting power, to be postponed or delayed. Market volatility is a result of the uncertainty surrounding the pandemic and its potential long-term effects on the economy. Competitive Landscape Major companies profiled in the report are Major companies profiled in the report are Siemens AG, ABB Ltd., General Electric Company, Schneider Electric SE, Eaton Corporation plc, Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Toshiba Corporation, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited, CG Power and Industrial Solutions Limited, Hyosung Corporation and Hitachi. Considered in this report: • Geography: Global • Historic year: 2017 • Base year: 2022 • Estimated year: 2023 • Forecast year: 2028 Aspects covered in this report: • Global Transformers market with its value and forecast along with its segments • Various drivers and challenges • On-going trends and developments • Top profiled companies • Strategic recommendation Regions & Country covered in the report: • North America (United States, Canada, Mexico) • Europe (Germany, United Kingdom, France, Spain, Italy, Russia) • Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea) • South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia) • Middle East & Africa (United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa) By Product Type: • Distribution Transformer • Power Transformer • Instrument Transformer • Others (Isolation Transformers, Pulse Transformers, Traction Transformer, etc.) By Core: • Closed • Shell • Berry By Winding: • Two Winding • Auto Transformer By Cooling Type: • Air Cooled • Oil Cooled By Phase: • Three Phase • Single Phase By Insulation: • Liquid Immersed • Dry • Gas • Solid By Mounting: • Pad • Pole By Voltage Range: • Up to 500 VA • 501 VA to 1 kVA • 2 kVA to 5000 kVA • 5001 kVA to 1000 MVA • Above 1000 MVA By Application: • Utility • Industrial • Residential and Commercial The approach of the report: This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports of companies, analyzing the government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources. Intended audience: This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the Transformers industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.