The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced an $18 million funding opportunity for Flexible Innovative Transformer Technologies (FITT), aiming to transform the nation's power grid. This initiative seeks to advance research, development, and demonstration of advanced transformers across various distribution to transmission scale applications.

Power transformers play a pivotal role in ensuring electricity is safely delivered from sources to end-users at the correct voltage level. With the FITT FOA projects, there's a focus on real-time monitoring capabilities for voltage, current, and temperature, enhancing grid reliability by enabling prompt detection and resolution of grid issues.

Moreover, the initiative aims to address transformer supply chain constraints by fostering the development of flexible, adaptable, and modular transformers. These innovations could significantly reduce long procurement lead times attributed to material, equipment, and labor shortages faced by transformer manufacturers.

Gene Rodrigues, Assistant Secretary for Electricity, emphasized the importance of these advancements, stating that they will contribute to building a more resilient and cost-effective grid while mitigating supply chain challenges in the utility sector. The funding, co-sponsored by DOE's Office of Electricity and the Office of Cybersecurity, Energy Security, and Emergency Response, underscores the government's commitment to modernizing the nation's energy infrastructure.

Interested parties can apply for funding through FedConnect until April 14, with DOE expecting to announce selectees by late summer. FITT FOA applicants are required to demonstrate prototype performance evaluation processes and adhere to efficiency and adaptability criteria for their designs, marking a significant step towards a more resilient and efficient power grid.

Source: energy.gov