The National
Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) announced the initiation of the
NEMA Premium Efficiency Transformer Program, which will help utilities,
commercial buildings, and industrial plants incorporate super high-efficiency
electrical transformers into their operations. NEMA originally set the standard
for the efficiency of various types of distribution transformers with the publication
of NEMA TP 1-2002 “Guide for Determining Energy Efficiency for Distribution
Transformers,” which was later adopted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
as the national energy-efficiency rule for low-voltage dry-type distribution
transformers. The new NEMA Premium Efficiency Transformer designation requires
30 percent fewer losses than existing DOE regulations (10 CFR 431) for
low-voltage dry-type distribution transformers.
The transformers covered under the new program are typically used in commercial
and industrial applications. However, some electric utilities are considering
the NEMA program for their commercial and industrial energy-efficiency rebate
programs. The adoption of this program will not only reduce energy consumption,
but will also significantly reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
To date, seven major manufacturers have committed to providing NEMA Premium
Efficiency Transformers to the marketplace. They include Eaton Electrical,
Federal Pacific, GE Energy Industrial Solutions, Hammond Power Solutions, ONYX
Power, Schneider Electric, and Siemens Industry, all NEMA members.
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