In an effort to reduce electricity losses and improve operational efficiency, Zhejiang province recently announced plans to upgrade its electrical grid with next-generation transformers.

The move will boost construction of a green power grid with an energy-saving and environmentally friendly power system in Taizhou, Zhejiang, said the local power supplier.

To achieve the goal of energy saving and environmental protection, State Grid Zhejiang Taizhou Power Supply Co carried out inspections of high-energy consumption transformers and found that a total of 109 transformers need to be replaced. The replacement will reduce power loss by about 470,000 kilowatt-hours per year, it said.

"Major malfunctions were found during the inspection, such as oil leakage of old transformers. The timely replacement of out-of-date transformers is surely conducive to normal production and safety," said a technician from the power supply company, adding that the usage of energy-saving transformers is expected to help upstream enterprises and downstream users achieve better economic, social and environmental ends.

The move is part of the country's efforts to boost power industry upgrades. An implementation plan for large-scale equipment upgrades in key energy fields was unveiled in August, with a focus on fostering innovation, phasing out outdated equipment and leveraging higher standards to guide the sector's sustainable development.

According to the plan, investment in critical energy equipment is set to increase by over 25 percent by 2027 compared to 2023. Key initiatives include upgrading power generation, transmission and distribution systems, implementing advanced recycling of power equipment, and fostering a clean, low-carbon, safe and efficient energy system.

In order to enhance industrial capabilities and boost domestic consumption, the central authorities issued a notice in July, announcing an allocation of approximately 300 billion yuan ($41.2 billion) in special long-term treasury bonds to support large-scale equipment upgrades and promote the replacement of outdated consumer products.

One of the key priorities is the modernization of the grid distribution network, the notice said. Measures include increasing transformer capacities in older residential communities, upgrading power lines and deploying smart metering systems to enhance grid efficiency and reliability.

According to China Electric Power News, relevant data estimate that initiatives such as equipment upgrades, recycling programs and the replacement of old systems could generate a trillion-yuan market, providing unprecedented opportunities for innovation and growth in the energy sector.

In this regard, State Grid Zhejiang Taizhou said it will continue to deploy technological innovation in power network upgrading, providing end users with advanced and secured solutions and services.