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Carbon Footprint of Power Transformers Evaluated Through Life Cycle Analysis

Author

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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)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Tomasz Piotrowski & Dorota Markowska, 2025. "Carbon Footprint of Power Transformers Evaluated Through Life Cycle Analysis," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(6), pages 1-20, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jeners:v:18:y:2025:i:6:p:1373-:d:1609604
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Yanpeng Wang & Haiyang Zhang & Erbiao Zhou & Lirong Xie & Juan Li, 2025. "Carbon Footprint Analysis of Distribution Network Transformers Based on Life Cycle Assessment," Energies, MDPI, vol. 18(3), pages 1-14, January.
    2. Pascale, Andrew & Urmee, Tania & Moore, Andrew, 2011. "Life cycle assessment of a community hydroelectric power system in rural Thailand," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 36(11), pages 2799-2808.
    3. Andrzej Maranda & Leszek Wachowski & Bożena Kukfisz & Dorota Markowska & Józef Paszula, 2025. "Valorization of Energetic Materials from Obsolete Military Ammunition Through Life Cycle Assessment (LCA): A Circular Economy Approach to Environmental Impact Reduction," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(1), pages 1-17, January.
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