Impact of the Renewable Energy Boom on Transformer Demand.
- Grupo Edmar
- Oct 28
- 4 min read
October 24, 2025 - Impact of the Renewable Energy Boom on Transformer Demand.
Impact of the renewable energy boom on the demand for transformers.
The transition to clean energy is profoundly transforming the way we generate, distribute, and consume electricity. The rise of solar, wind, hydroelectric, and other renewable energy sources not only represents a positive environmental change but also creates significant technical challenges and market opportunities. Among the equipment most impacted by this transformation are electrical transformers, key components for connecting renewable generators to the electrical grid and ensuring that energy reaches consumers efficiently and safely.
This transition is causing the demand for transformers to not only increase in volume but also to diversify, adapting to different types of projects, environments, and efficiency needs. Companies like Grupo Edmar , with experience in the manufacturing and adaptation of medium- and high-voltage transformers, are strategically positioned to support developers, contractors, and integrators in this new energy era. In this article, we analyze how the renewable revolution impacts demand, the emerging challenges, and the opportunities for those seeking reliable and efficient solutions.
Changing the Energy Model and its effect on the electrical infrastructure.
The change in the energy model implies a shift from centralized systems based on large fossil fuel plants to distributed systems with multiple renewable generation sources connected at different points in the grid. This has several impacts on the electrical infrastructure:
More connection points: Solar and wind farms require transformers at each generating site, unlike traditional plants that centralize power.
Operational flexibility: Renewable generation is intermittent; transformers must withstand constant variations in load and power flow.
Grid modernization: Existing infrastructure is often not designed to inject power from multiple points, requiring the installation of transformers with new capacities and protections.
Decentralized distribution: Microgrids, community energy projects, and rural projects are driving the need for small and medium-sized transformers that adapt to specific local conditions.
Technical specifications that change in renewables.
The integration of renewable energy requires more versatile and adaptable transformers. Among the most significant changes in technical specifications are:
Variable Load Cycle Capacity: Fluctuating solar and wind generation requires transformers capable of withstanding frequent startups and rapid power changes.
Bidirectional flow: Some projects, such as microgrids with storage, require transformers that allow power to flow to the grid or to the facility based on demand.
Loss reduction and increased efficiency: Minimizing losses not only improves project efficiency but also reduces long-term operating costs.
Insulation and resistance to extreme environments: Transformers located in desert, mountainous, or coastal areas require materials that can withstand high temperatures, humidity, or corrosion.
These factors make the design and manufacture of transformers for renewable energy more specialized than for traditional installations.
Transformer Market Growth Driven by Renewables.
The rise of clean energy has generated sustained growth in the transformer market, with key implications:
Increased sales volume: More projects generate greater demand for transformers of different capacities and voltages.
Product diversification: from distribution transformers to high-voltage transformers, including modular and compact units, all with features adapted to renewable energy.
Opportunities for local manufacturers: Companies like Grupo Edmar can offer customized products, local technical support, and shorter delivery times, gaining an advantage over imports.
Positive outlook: Studies show compound annual growth (CAGR) of between 5% and 8% in transformer demand over the next five years, driven primarily by solar and wind power.
This expansion means the industry must adapt quickly to meet the needs of efficiency, reliability, and adaptation to diverse environments.
Specific Challenges for Transformers in Renewable Projects.
Despite the growth, the integration of renewables presents challenges that directly affect transformers:
Transportation and logistics: Many facilities are located in remote or difficult-to-access areas, requiring specialized transportation solutions and easier-to-install transformers.
Regulatory compliance: Each country has specific regulations regarding power quality, protection, and connection of renewable energy sources, so equipment must comply with various international standards.
Maintenance and lifespan: Use in variable cycles and extreme environments can impact equipment lifespan, requiring more detailed maintenance plans and ongoing monitoring.
Grid coordination: Interconnecting multiple distributed generators requires transformers with advanced protection and control systems to maintain stability.
These challenges reinforce the need for specialized design and reliable manufacturing, where Grupo Edmar can contribute its expertise.
Innovation and Integration of Technologies in Transformers for Renewables.
To respond to these challenges, the industry has developed smarter and more adaptable transformers:
Sensors and remote monitoring: These allow you to monitor temperature, vibrations, and insulation status in real time, anticipating failures before they occur.
Advanced materials: Optimized alloys, resins, and cores reduce losses and improve efficiency in harsh environments.
Modular and compact design: facilitates installation in remote or space-limited projects, reducing time and costs.
Integration with storage and microgrids: Ensures compatibility with systems that require bidirectional flow or connection to batteries.
These innovations not only improve efficiency, but also add value to renewable projects by ensuring long-term reliability and security.
Practical Cases and Application Examples.
Some concrete examples help to visualize the application of transformers in renewable energy projects:
50 MW desert solar farm: transformers with high kVA capacity, enhanced cooling, and resistance to extreme temperatures are required.
Offshore wind farm: transformers resistant to corrosion and saline environments, with limited maintenance due to the location.
Rural microgrids with storage: bidirectional transformers that allow excess energy to be injected into the grid or consumed on demand.
These cases demonstrate the importance of selecting transformers designed for the specific conditions of the project, something in which the Edmar Group has extensive experience.
How customers can prepare for and take advantage of the trend.
For developers and contractors, these steps are key to taking advantage of the energy transition:
Advance planning for the acquisition of transformers.
Clear definition of technical specifications, including voltage, capacity, environmental conditions and bidirectional flow.
Total cost of ownership assessment, considering efficiency and maintenance.
Selection of suppliers with experience in renewable projects, capable of offering customized solutions.
Leveraging local suppliers to reduce delivery times and ensure local support (Edmar Group).
Adopting these strategies ensures that projects are completed on time, within budget, and with reliable equipment.
