Rising Electricity Demand Puts Transformer Efficiency and Project Planning in Focus

Global electricity use is entering another period of strong growth. The International Energy Agency expects worldwide demand to increase by 3.6% in 2026 and 3.8% in 2027, supported by industry, data centres, electric vehicles, air conditioning and wider electrification.

Grid Capacity Is Becoming a Project Constraint

New loads can be developed faster than the networks needed to serve them. Data centres may be completed in one to three years and EV charging infrastructure in one to two years, while major grid projects can require five to fifteen years. For buyers, early transformer and switchgear planning is therefore increasingly important.

Efficiency Is a Lifecycle Decision

A transformer operates for many years, so no-load and load losses affect both operating cost and heat management. Selection should consider the real load profile, expected expansion, ambient conditions, harmonics, cooling method and required redundancy—not only the initial rated capacity. IEC TS 60076-20 provides recognised methods for evaluating transformer energy performance.

Dry-Type Transformers for Indoor Networks

For commercial buildings, industrial facilities and data-centre environments, dry-type transformers offer oil-free operation and flexible enclosure options. IEC 60076-11 covers dry-type transformers up to 72.5 kV and addresses thermal, climatic, environmental and enclosure considerations that should be reviewed during specification.

Planning Earlier Reduces Delivery Risk

Projects can reduce late changes by defining the electrical ratings, installation conditions, accessories, certification and commissioning requirements before ordering. Coordinating transformers and switchgear as one system also helps avoid interface issues during installation.

Sources: IEA Electricity Mid-Year Update 2026, IEA Electricity 2026 — Grids, IEC 60076-11 and IEC TS 60076-20.