Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Distribution Grids through Load Profile-Driven Mutual Displacement of Transformers

Transformers are one of the grid assets necessary for energy transmission and are considered highly efficient devices; therefore, they are not generally considered in energy efficiency studies. However, the number of transformers is significantly high in the distribution grid, which means they have a significant share in total losses. This paper proposes an optimization model for loss minimization through the mutual displacement of the transformers deployed within the same region by considering the load profile. This study examines sub-hourly loads collected from real transformers with various installed capacities. The results indicate that up to 3.9 MWh per year can be saved by mutually displacing the transformers. Furthermore, the possible limitations of mutual displacement in real-world applications, including lack of candidates, technical and operational challenges, and regulatory borders, are discussed.