Green Giant: India's First 400kV Ester Transformer Arrives

On 15 July 2025, Hitachi Energy handed over India’s first 400 kV class, three-phase power transformer filled with synthetic ester fluid to the Power Grid Corporation of India, marking a significant step forward in sustainable, high-performance energy infrastructure.

In a company statement, Hitachi Energy described the milestone as a major advancement in environmentally conscious and future-ready grid technology. The 315 MVA transformer, the largest of its kind in India in both kV class and MVA rating, is designed to operate at higher temperatures, enabling greater load handling, enhanced energy efficiency, and lower operational costs—while significantly improving safety performance.

Manufactured at Hitachi Energy’s Maneja facility in Vadodara, the unit was developed using the company’s global Trafostar platform, reinforcing India's ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision in the power sector.

The use of biodegradable synthetic ester fluid, with a high flash point of 330°C, reduces fire risk and environmental impact, making it ideal for deployment in urban centres and ecologically sensitive zones.

“This transformer demonstrates our commitment to advancing grid resilience and sustainability while supporting India’s clean energy goals,” the company stated.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.