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Congressional ____
A Research Service
DOE's Proposed Regulation on Electricity
Distribution Transformers
June 13, 2023
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) regulates the energy efficiency of electricity distribution
transformers using authority under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (P.L. 94-163), as amended.
DOE issued a proposed rule on January 11, 2023, that, if finalized, would raise the minimum efficiency
standards for certain types of distribution transformers manufactured and sold into commerce. DOE has
stated this may require switching to a new type of steel for one part of the transformer. Certain electric
power trade groups have cited supply chain challenges that may impact the availability of this type of
steel. DOE has stated that the supply is expected to meet the increased demand.
Regulations for Distribution Transformers
Congress first required DOE to set legally-binding energy conservation standards for distribution
transformers in the Energy Policy Act of 1992 (P.L. 102-486), provided that such standards would be
technologically feasible and economically justified, and would result in significant energy savings. 42
U.S.C. §6317(a)(1). DOE first published standards for two types of transformers in October 2007, with a
compliance date in January 2010. Congress set standards for a third type of transformer in the Energy
Policy Act of 2005 (P.L. 109-58). 10 C.F.R. §431.196.
DOE Rulemakings and Types of Steel
Transformers change the input voltage of power being transported via the electric grid, stepping it up or
down as necessary, to synchronize different components and stabilize the grid. (For more discussion of
transformers, see CRS Insight IN12048 or CRS In Focus IF12253.) The parts of a transformer include a
steel core, wrapped by insulated electrical wires. Grain-oriented electrical steel (GOES) has been the
dominant material used in distribution transformer cores; amorphous steel is another category used for the
cores. DOE previously had found that amorphous [steel] is the lowest-loss grade and a practical
necessity to reach the very highest efficiency levels. The very thin nature of the amorphous steel ribbons
can reduce energy loss phenomena. The 2023 proposed rule, however, does not dictate the choice of steel.
Congressional Research Service
https://crsreports.congress.gov
IN12179
CRS INSIGHT
Prepared for Members and
Committees of Congress](ViewImageLocal?handle=hein.crs/govelxz0001&div=1&collection=&method=preview&ext=.png&size=3)