Carbon Footprint of Power Transformers Evaluated Through Life Cycle Analysis

Tomasz Piotrowski () and Dorota Markowska
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Tomasz Piotrowski: Institute of Electrical Power Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Stefanowskiego 18, 90-537 Lodz, Poland
Dorota Markowska: Faculty of Process and Environmental Engineering, Lodz University of Technology, Wólczańska 213, 90-924 Lodz, Poland

Energies, 2025, vol. 18, issue 6, 1-20

Abstract: The growing global demand for electricity is one of the crucial factors contributing to the increase in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Power transformers, although essential components in electricity transmission and distribution systems, significantly impact the environment. This paper employs a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) to evaluate the carbon footprint of two oil-immersed transformers with a capacity of 31.5 MVA and 25 MVA, manufactured in Poland in 2023, with an assumed lifetime of 40 years. The analysis follows a cradle-to-use approach and considers various scenarios, including differences in the average operating load levels, electricity generation from different sources, and a time frame spanning 2024–2063. After 2–3 years of transformer operation, even at low loads, the CO 2 equivalent (CO 2 -eq) emissions associated with energy losses exceed those generated during the transformer production. These results underscore the critical importance of utilizing advanced construction materials and design solutions. Moreover, this analysis highlights the need to implement systemic actions aimed at restructuring electricity generation, especially in regions that heavily dependent on fossil fuels.

Keywords: power transformers; carbon footprint; life cycle assessment; emission factors; primary data (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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