The future of power transformer testing De toekomst van het testen van vermogenstransformatoren
Insights from EWPTT2025
News
Last month, I had the pleasure of chairing the European Workshop for Power Transformer Testing (EWPTT) at VSL in Delft. What struck me most throughout the day was how closely technical measurement questions are now tied to strategic challenges – from a shortage of high‑quality large power transformers to the growing pressure on grids and climate targets.
Transformers are in high demand while supply is tight, so every new unit matters. Transmission system operators such as TenneT showed how they now include transformer losses directly in their procurement evaluations. That only works if loss measurements are accurate and comparable, which is why there was so much focus on traceability, uncertainty and compliance with IEEE and IEC standards. Confidence in measurement results is quickly becoming a key differentiator in the market.
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In my discussions with manufacturers, I heard a clear message: customers increasingly ask for proof of performance, not just datasheets. This is driving a strong demand for transformer load loss measurement systems in testing facilities, and at the same time raising expectations on uncertainty. At VSL, we shared how we address this with on‑site calibration of Transformer Loss Measurement Systems (TLMS), using approaches such as phantom power and automation to deliver reliable results under real‑world conditions.
A technical highlight for me was our demonstration of calibrations with accuracies down to 0.2% at low power factors. Behind that number is a lot of careful work on calibration regimes – combining system‑level and component‑level calibrations to achieve uncertainties that are both realistic and fit for purpose. This is where close cooperation between metrology institutes, equipment manufacturers like Measurements International and Haefely, and end‑users truly pays off.
Workshops like EWPTT2025 are so incredibly valuable because they create a shared understanding across the entire chain: grid operators, manufacturers, test labs and metrology experts. When we sit together, it becomes clear that better loss measurements are not just a technical ambition. They help manufacturers compete fairly, they guide TSOs towards more efficient investments, and they ultimately reduce energy losses and CO₂ emissions. That combination of precision, reliability and collaboration is exactly what we need to build a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure.
If you would like to continue the conversation or learn more about the outcomes of EWPTT2025, feel free to contact me!