Image for illustrative purposes

Power Grid Corporation of India (POWERGRID) has commissioned the country’s first 315 MVA, 400/220/33 kV synthetic ester oil-filled transformer at its Bhiwadi Sub-station.

The transformer uses synthetic ester insulating oil, which is biodegradable and fire-safe, and is designed to operate under high load conditions. According to the company, the technology aligns with global practices in environmentally safer transmission systems.

R K Tyagi, Chairman & Managing Director, inaugurated the facility, along with other senior officials.

As of December 31, 2025, POWERGRID operates 287 substations, more than 1,81,894 circuit km of transmission lines, and has a total transformation capacity of 5,94,016 MVA. The company reported an average transmission system availability of 99.84%, citing the use of automation and digital monitoring tools.

Industry analysts note that the adoption of synthetic ester oil in high-capacity transformers is part of a wider trend toward environmentally safer and fire-resistant insulation in power transmission, though such equipment is typically more expensive than conventional mineral oil-based transformers.

The transformer at Bhiwadi Sub-station represents a technical addition to the existing transmission network, with potential implications for grid safety and environmental risk management, though its operational impact on the wider grid will depend on future deployment and network integration.

Source: energy.economictimes