Supply Chains for Electricity Grids

Introduction

Electricity grids are facing significant challenges. Not only they are based on engineering principles that are over a century old and are constrained by sometimes outdated infrastructure. Additionally, they must adapt to the increasing integration of renewable energy, rising load demand, and the emergence of new electricity demand in the transportation sector. Moreover, distributed generation not only supplies power to consumers but also returns electricity to the grid.

It is essential to have strong and efficient supply chains in place to guarantee that the necessary equipment for system operators involved in the energy transition is delivered on time, in the required quantities, and without any compromise to quality or reliability.

Nevertheless, the topic of supply chains for technical equipment used in electricity grids has not yet been addressed in a comprehensive manner.

Supply Chain Components

Transformers

Electrical transformers represent one of the fundamental components of the electricity grid. They are used to increase or decrease AC voltage levels, for example raising the voltage coming from generators and power plants, which enables more efficient transmission over long distances. They are also used to lower the voltage coming from transmission lines, which can be used in industry or sent to a distribution substation. They are also used to reduce the voltage again for distribution to end users.

Supply shortages of transformers are mainly caused by:

• Lack of materials and components
• Lack of skilled workforce

In the US, public power utilities have deferred or canceled one in five infrastructure projects that would require more resources than available due to shortages of distribution transformers.

Further Information

• Grid Portal on energypedia
• U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) , Securing America’s Clean Energy Supply Chain