June 11, ILUNION Pío XII Hotel, Madrid, Spain
Investments, Artificial Intelligence, and Sustainability
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About
This year’s Transformers Magazine Industry Navigator conference, titled “Investments, Artificial Intelligence, and Sustainability,” took place on June 11-13, 2024. The event was held in a hybrid format, with online participation via Transformers Academy and in-person attendance at ILUNION Pío XII Hotel, Madrid, Spain.
The conference brought together the industry’s most influential players to address current challenges and provide guidance for future development. As part of the conference, an in-depth research project was carried out to identify investment trends for new transformers up to 2033, required investments in manufacturing capacities, key supply chain challenges, sustainability perspectives and more.
The conference featured 27 high quality presentations, two workshops, one focused on sustainability and the other on AI, numerous Q&A sessions, an invitation-only meeting, and an engaging social programme.
Testimonials
“I’m very happy to be here in Madrid at the Transformers Magazine conference. It’s been a great couple of days talking about AI, investments in the grid, but also sustainability. Of course, you all know I stand for the sustainability topics, especially supply chain decarbonization, so take a look at the recordings of the sessions which you could have also streamed live. I’m really looking forward to the next year where we will surely be talking about sustainability again, because the topic is here to stay. Keep on watching”
Siemens Energy
Christina Iosifidou, Sustainability Manager, Grid Technologies
“I’m very happy to be here and to continue this collaboration between Hitachi Energy and Transformers Magazine in this very insightful initiative that is Industry Navigator. This was a program full of insightful discussions, carefully selected topics such as transformer sustainability, artificial intelligence, and investments. There was really great participation, with many transformer experts sharing knowledge, sharing experience, and more importantly, sharing a common passion about transformers, and I’m really looking forward to continuing this collaboration and participating in the next edition. Thank you very much.”
Hitachi Energy
Miguel Oliva, Global Portfolio and Marketing Manager, Transformer Business
“As a manufacturer of grain-oriented electrical steel, we are nothing else but the transformer industry itself. This conference is very, very important for us, and we always talk about collaboration to accompany this massive growth, which electricity grid equipment suppliers have in front of them, and this conference here is really the one place where this collaboration is truly initiated. And for this reason, I am looking forward to the next year.”
thyssenkrupp Electrical Steel
Marcel Hilgers, Vice President Customers, Markets & Technology
“I’m really very pleased to be part of the Transformers Magazine conference 2024. It is really amazing how the conference has developed. I already participated in 2022 with a much smaller group of people, and now also it has become much more international. We have a lot of different topics which are all relevant to our industry, and I’m really, really looking forward to seeing how it will develop in the following. Thanks, and goodbye!”
SGB-SMIT Group
Julia Däumer, Business Development
“I’m really satisfied with the conference. I think it’s a really great opportunity to have contact with colleagues from all over the world with different backgrounds, and discuss topics relevant for our industry, such as artificial intelligence and sustainability. And I’m really looking forward to the next year to move forward with these topics in our industry. Thank you very much!”
SGB-SMIT Group
Ana Rojas, Sustainability Manager
“It’s great to be here at the conference. It’s a great space to remove barriers between the industry players and look for common ground on topics which impact the whole industry. I would like to say well done to the Transformers Magazine team for such a well-organized and professional event. I think this is a really important outlet for all the future and current partners and where we all have a voice which we can utilize to bring out the ideas that are essential in today’s world.”
Micafluid
Paul Gonçalves, Director of Operations
“The conference fulfilled my expectations. We heard lots of interesting topics covered by the presentations and papers. We gathered everyone from manufacturers to suppliers, and it’s interesting to see how we deal with issues and the things that are in front of us. It’s a good opportunity to share information, and in the end, thanks to Mladen and the team who organized the conference, and I’m looking forward to next conference. KONCAR D&ST will support the next such conferences of such type.”
KONCAR D&ST
Vanja Burul, President of Management Board
“The Industry Navigator conference is a really unique conference that brings together all industry stakeholders. In the past three days, we’ve heard a lot about the developments in the power energy, but also the challenges that we are facing. I’m really looking forward to the next event, and I’m sure that KONCAR will continue to support it in every possible way.”
KONCAR Group
Vlatka Kamenic Jagodic, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communications Department
“The Transformers Magazine conference is a wonderful platform to come together with our most important stakeholders of this industry, and complementing what the magazine does in a periodic way, so powerful and technical content, and that’s a very interesting platform to give visibility to this whole industry. We will keep supporting and collaborating, and we will return for sure. Thanks!”
Nynas
Hugo Campelo, Senior Technical Advisor
“Transformers Magazine, what can I say? I’ve been working with Mladen and his team for many years. I see him as a solid partner, someone I can trust in, in him and his company. He always has good ideas. It’s innovation. We can speak about projects and find the best fit. So, for us as a company, HAEFELY, it’s just brilliant to delegate this kind of activities to a magazine, a platform, and reach our client. That’s a huge value. So here I can only say you can go ahead and trust the Transformers Magazine conference. It’s a really good, quality event. “I’ve been doing conferences and have spoken at many events around the world, and this event is probably in the top three which I’ve seen, which I’ve done so far. It’s only the third in-person edition and it’s been growing so fast and has become such a high-quality event in only three editions. That’s a huge statement. I really believe that the next edition, or the coming editions, will keep evolving in that direction. So, I have my full commitment to that, so we will come back to the event, and we will keep publishing with Transformers Magazine.”
HAEFELY AG
Frédéric Dollinger, Area Sales & Marketing Manager
“I’m Jean Sanchez, senior transformer engineer in EDF, the French main utility, and this conference is really amazing to have a very quick look at the global industry, main challenges and hot topics like sustainability, AA or investment, the lack of skilled people. It’s really fruitful to meet many people within a short timeframe, and I hope to go to the next edition soon. Thank you very much!”
EDF
Jean Sanchez, Senior transformer engineer
“My name is Sruti, and I am from Omicron. As you can see by the name Industry Navigator, the whole point is to come together and talk about the challenges which we are facing all together and help us find solutions which can maneuver, which can help us navigate through the industry. We are delighted that we are participating in the Industry Navigator conference 2024 here in Madrid, and we are really looking forward to the next edition coming up next year. We have had some great papers, some great discussions, and we look forward to having you next year here as well.”
Omicron Electronics
Sruti Chakraborty, Product Manager
“Congratulations for the conference. It’s a very nice place to share information and to give information to others, OEM, customers, and people from the market. This is a very big scenario for exchanging ideas and solutions and for sharing our problems of common point to the future. From our part, from our side, MR, we support this kind of events, we want to work together every day and to get formal opinions and common opinions for the next way to take. Thank you very much and keep going!”
Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen
Martín Reynoso, Head of Sales Europe WEST & Country Managing Director
Gallery
Here you can browse through the gallery of photographs taken during the TMIN conference 2024 in Madrid, 11-13, June 2024.
We sincerely appreciate your participation and attendance.
Looking forward to seeing you next year!
This year's sponsors
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Presentations and Recordings
To read more about each topic, watch the video, or see the presentation, click on the topic field to expand it.
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Mladen Banovic, Transformers Magazine: Investments 2024 - Outlook to 2033
Transformers Magazine
Mladen Banovic, Editor-in-Chief
See the presentation slides | See the Investments 2024 report
Abstract
The energy transition is stimulating massive investment in power grids, which is driving demand for power equipment, including transformers. Manufacturers with orders stretching years into the future are challenged to increase production capacity, but the uncertainty lies in future demand. Utilities, faced with longer lead times and full production capacities, are considering relaxing specifications to ensure transformer supply. Material availability and price volatility add to these challenges.
Transformers Magazine, as the independent voice of the industry with extensive experience in conducting complex research projects, has researched the major challenges facing the industry, in particular the shortage of transformers and skilled labour, as well as future trends in the industry.
This presentation and discussion will focus on unique research findings that are important to prepare for market developments in advance.
Speaker’s bio
Dr Mladen Banovic is a scientist and innovator in the field of energy transmission with 25 years of technical and managerial experience.
He currently holds the positions of Director and Editor-in-Chief at Merit Media Int. – the company behind the Transformers Magazine, Transformers Academy, Industry Navigator, and Transformers Forum brands.
During his career, he managed development of products and systems for worldwide use in electric power grids up to 1200 kV (currently the highest level in the world), the development and deployment of systems for smart grid and automated design, testing, diagnostic and monitoring systems.
Education: PhD, MSc, and BSc degrees in electrical engineering from the University of Zagreb, Croatia.
Affiliations: IEEE Senior Member, CIGRE, European Association of Science Editors (EASE), etc.
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Miguel Oliva & Giuseppe Petrelli, HITACHI ENERGY: Scaling the Transformers value chain into New Heights: Investments, Technology, People (READ MORE)
HITACHI ENERGY
Miguel Oliva, Global Portfolio and Marketing Manager, Transformer Business
Abstract
It is well known that the clean energy transition and the further electrification of the energy system is creating an in-creased demand for transformers. An external observer may see supply-demand tensions creating an increase in de-livery times. But what is happening behind the scenes and how are manufacturers addressing the challenges of an increased demand?
This presentation will provide some insights into how Hitachi Energy is addressing the short-, mid-, and long-term needs of its customers and the associated challenges to scale up the transformers value chain.
Speaker’s bio
Miguel Oliva, Global Portfolio and Marketing Manager, Transformer Business at Hitachi Energy
Miguel is currently leading the Global Portfolio and Marketing of the transformer business at Hitachi Energy. With over 25 years in the transformer industry, he has extensive experience in engineering, technology, product management, business development and marketing and sales. He is the co‐author of several transformer-related whitepapers and articles and has actively participated and cooperated with leading electric utilities and industries in developing innova-tive transformer applications. Miguel represented Spain at the CIGRE A2 Transformer Committee from 2004 until 2014. He holds a master’s degree in industrial engineering from the University of Seville and an executive MBA from San Telmo Business School.
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Juan Miguel Muñoz, Ormazabal: Key factors in ensuring transformer supply chain in Europe (READ MORE)
Ormazabal
Juan Miguel Muñoz, Industrial Technical Engineer by ICAI
Abstract
In a world like the present one, it will increasingly become more complex to succeed in the path of decarbonization, ensuring the continuous increase in electrical demand, strengthening our infrastructures, and securing the supply capacity of the equipment comprising the current and future electrical grid.
In this presentation, we will provide some key insights into elements that we consider may impact the transformer supply chain, in order to achieve success in a competitive and sustainable manner in the future.
Speaker’s bio
Juan Miguel Muñoz has been the Head of Transformers division at Ormazabal since 2019. He has held different responsibilities during his 25 years at the company. Chronologically: Technical-Sales team, Central Spain regional manager, Services and solutions department manager, Spain Sales Manager.
He has a master’s degree in marketing and commercial management by ESIC.
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Dollinger, Frédéric, HAEFELY AG: Future-Profing High Voltage Test Systems: The Human-Centric Investment Strategy in an AI-Driven World (READ MORE)
HAEFELY AG, Frédéric Dollinger, Area Sales & Marketing Manager
Abstract
In a rapidly evolving technological landscape, making strategic investments in high voltage testing systems is crucial for ensuring long-term success and sustainability. This presentation, titled “Future-Proofing High Voltage Test Systems: The Human-Centric Investment Strategy in an AI-Driven World,” will provide actionable insights into creating resilient, efficient, and future-ready transformer testing laboratories.
We will explore the importance of moving beyond traditional industry mindsets, identifying key investment triggers, and making optimal decisions for managing critical components. Attendees will gain valuable knowledge on developing robust backup plans, investing in upgradeable systems, and the essential role of proactive maintenance and calibration.
By focusing on human-centric strategies, including comprehensive operator training and stringent safety protocols, this session will equip industry professionals with the expertise to make informed, future-proof investments. Emphasizing practical approaches that align with current AI trends, this presentation ensures your investments are prepared to stand the test of time.
Speaker’s bio
Frédéric Dollinger works for HAEFELY since 2012, at the factory located in Basel, Switzerland. Successively Product & Marketing Manager and then Area Sales & Marketing Manager, he has travelled across the globe, to various customers for project discussions and finalization. This has allowed him to acquire wide application experience and deep product knowledge. He is also attending to main international exhibition and participates as speaker to technical seminars. With the lunch of the DTTS – Distribution Transformer Test System – on 2012, he was an active player to introduce this new product on the market and promote it as standardized test system with reduced cycle time.
His specialized field of activity is transformer test systems as well as any other applications with frequency converter based technology, such as on site cable testing with variable frequency. He is knowledgeable about American standard IEEE C57.12.90-1999 and European standard IEC 60076 (and the other related standards), for routine and type tests on power and distribution transformer
Background: In 2007 he received a master degree in Mechatronics from the renowned French engineering school INSA. He worked as Project Manager and Sales Manager for MiniTec Zurich.
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Alberto Rodríguez Sigüenza, ERHARDT Projects: Power Grid Supply Chain Challenges. US Dependence On Foreing Manufacturers (READ MORE)
ERHARDT Projects
Alberto Rodríguez Sigüenza, Managing Director
Abstract
In 2020, the US Department of Energy (DoE) approved The Grid Modernization Initiative (GMI), a program focused not only on modernizing the existing Power Grid System, but to create a whole new infrastructure that can attend the US demand for electricity in the near future. This program has boosted the the already booming Power Transformer industry at the same time has posed many challenges fro the supply chain perspective. US dependance on foreing manufacturers results in increasing prices due to the logistic costs and constraints related to US ports and rail systems.
Speaker’s bio
Alberto Rodriguez Siguenza leads the Energy Unit within Erhardt Proejcts. With a degree in Law and Business Administration from the University of Cadiz and a Master in Business and Maritime Law from ICADE, he currently holds the position of Managing Director of Erhardt Projects’ subsidiary in Houston. He has 10 years of experience in the Energy Sector, working for energy companies and EPEC’s in the management of Transportation Engineering Operations for Construction and Installation Projects. For the past 4 years he has specialized in the Power Grid undustry, focused on the transport and logistic of heavy transformers from Europe, South America and the US.
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Julia Däumer, SGB-SMIT: Transforming together the future of energy (READ MORE)
SGB-SMIT
Julia Däumer, Business Development
Abstract
Reliability, efficiency, and affordability in transformer technology are the core topics at SGB-SMIT Group. In this discussion, we will explore how building robust and enduring relationships supports the transition to renewable energy alternatives while ensuring a safe and steady energy supply. At SGB-SMIT, we address the importance of precision in navigating market trends and how aligning with United Nations values can drive sustainable progress. The aim is to contribute to a transformative dialogue shaping the future of energy solutions.
Speaker’s bio
Since 2022, Julia Däumer has been heading Business Development at SGB-SMIT Group. In her role she is driving SGB-SMIT’s sustainability endeavors and growth strategy. With over fifteen years of experience in the energy sector and a degree in mathematics and economics, she is dedicated to achieving sustainable progress through concrete and measurable actions. Contributing four years to SGB-SMIT’s successful work as a supply chain manager in the power transformer sector, she truly understands the significance of sustainability and the collaborative efforts necessary to advance the energy transition.
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Dr Luiz Cheim, HITACHI ENERGY: Machine Learning Algorithms in the Transformer Industry (READ MORE)
Hitachi Energy
Dr. Luiz Cheim, Senior Principal R&D Engineer
Abstract
Having some knowledge in Statistical Analysis and Machine Learning is crucial to leverage the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in a large variety of engineering and scientific problems.
The goal of this session is to provide the participants with the foundations of these techniques, as well as illus-trative examples from real-world problems of applications in the power transformers business. The examples will demonstrate how the semi-automated nature of those algorithms can be extended to a variety of problems in different fields and will give to the audience the understanding of their potential to be used in their own areas of interest.
Speaker’s bio
Dr Luiz Cheim has been with Hitachi Energy (formerly ABB) since 2009 working as a Senior Principal R&D En-gineer, with an extensive list of publications and work carried out as a Senior Member of the IEEE Transformers Committee and a Cigre Paris SCA2 Distinguished Member since 2006. His major activities are on the develop-ment of power transformers condition assessment algorithms and performance models, with the application of sophisticated statistical tools, AI/Machine Learning algorithms. Luiz holds more than 25 patents with several new applications in progress, being the mastermind behind the Transformer Algorithms in Hitachi Lumada APM and the proponent of the Transformer Inspection Robot, among others.
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Dr. Jong-Geon Lee, KEPCO: A progress of AI based nationwide condition monitoring and diagnosis system in KEPCO (READ MORE)
KEPCO
Dr. Jong-Geon Lee, Senior researcher at Transmission & Substation Laboratory
Abstract
The advancement of AI technology is accelerating automation across various industries. In power system operations, the appropriate utilization of AI has become a significant issue, particularly in addressing traditional concerns such as equipment failures. In this regard, KEPCO also promotes introducing a nationwide monitoring system with an AI based diagnostic algorithm to prevent transformer failures. It provides opportunities for adequate wide-area condition monitoring and diagnosis of transformers with high reliability, thereby minimizing human errors and deriving optimal fault prevention and recovery solutions. This presentation deals with the development progress, application, and plans related to automated condition monitoring and diagnostic technology in KEPCO.
Speaker’s bio
Jong-Geon Lee has worked for KEPCO Research Institute (KEPRI) for eight years as a senior researcher on condition monitoring technologies for substations and fault investigation. His main achievements are developing a comprehensive substation condition monitoring system applied to KEPCO substations and its evaluation test technologies. Before joining KEPRI, he received a Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from Hanyang University in 2017.
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Jean Sanchez, EDF / David Gopp: FRA winding type field cases and automatic classification using AI (READ MORE)
EDF
Jean Sanchez, Senior transformer engineer
David Gopp
Abstract
Artificial intelligence is a very powerful tool to bundle expert knowledge into algorithms. This helps in providing expert knowledge on demand. In the further course, the authors want to give some examples of how powerful AI in the analysis of SFRA curves and checking the quality and validity already is. Furthermore, a proposal for the sub-band separation is discussed, and some field cases are presented.
Speaker’s bio
Jean Sanchez is a senior transformer engineer at EDF, a French main generation utility, mostly on investigations, tests and their associated diagnosis, FAT, HV bushings, and fleet assessments. He acquired a PhD in power transformer fault diagnosis in 2011, with a French power transformer reparation factory.
David Gopp
Speaker’s bio
David Gopp graduated with a master’s degree in power engineering and energy management from the University of Applied Sciences in Dornbirn in 2019. He started his professional career as a working student at OMICRON electronics in software as well as hardware development.
He then worked for two years as a technical support and applications engineer at OMICRON electronics, where he specialized in the evaluation and diagnosis of power transformers and instrument transformers. Since January 2020, he has been responsible for sweep frequency response analysis in product management.
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Sruti Chakraborty, OMICRON electronics UK: A digital twin perspective on AI-driven winding fault analysis in transformer (READ MORE)
OMICRON electronics UK
Sruti Chakraborty, Product Manager
Abstract
With a surge in grid digitalization, there is a huge influx of transformer data that may enable real-time analysis or feedback on the state and condition of the asset envisioning the reality of digital twins. While replicating the physical asset, artificial intelligence (AI) has also come a long way in delivering various asset centric needs such as fault detection and failure mode analysis using complex tests such as SFRA in transformers. Digitalization is incomplete without reliability and sustainability that ultimately drive investment decisions for key stakeholders. Therefore, this paper shares various examples on AI driven transformer winding fault analysis, test validation, and result interpretation that will enable transformer digital twins to provide a more nuanced approach towards predictive analytics.
Speaker’s bio
Sruti Chakraborty is a chemical engineer with a PhD in transformer moisture dynamics from the Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur (India) in 2017. She found her motivation in the field of transformer monitoring and diagnostics as a working student at Crompton Greaves Ltd (Mumbai) in 2011. At the time, her research was focused on ageing character of transformer dielectric insulation. After her doctoral studies she supported Seetalabs SRL as a co-founder, consultant, and subject matter expert for AI-driven transformer health indexing solution. Since February 2024, she is a part of the product management team in OMICRON electronics and is responsible for sweep frequency response analysis.
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Dr. Mauricio Soto, HITACHI ENERGY: Synthetic Dissolved Gas Analysis Data Generation and Training of a Time Series Predictor (READ MORE)
Hitachi Energy
Dr. Mauricio Soto, Global R&D Artificial Intelligence Program Manager
Abstract
This study proposes a methodology for generating synthetic dissolved gas analysis time series based on a compilation of real DGA data. We’ll discuss the proposed data synthesis mechanism, the feature engineering, and data processing techniques applied to our data to transform it from a time series dataset to a tabular dataset with added features to enhance model training. We later train machine learning classifiers with the generated synthetic data and show how models trained with our technique achieve an accuracy of 98.03% when training a DGA classifier. Overall, this study shows a promising technique to generate synthetic transformer data, which would allow researchers in the power industry to have access to a vast body of data. This data can be used to further the creation of artificial intelligence techniques to improve the design, manufacturing, and monitoring of electric components in the power grid.
Speaker’s bio
Dr. Mauricio Soto, Global R&D Artificial Intelligence Program Manager at Hitachi Energy.
His work involves creating AI models for the design, manufacturing, and monitoring of transformers. At Hitachi Energy, he is in charge of driving artificial intelligence innovation, strategy, intellectual property, collaborations, IEEE/Cigre participation and publications. He obtained his Ph.D. and M.Sc. from the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon University.
Dr. Soto, senior member and leader of IEEE and Cigre, was recognized as “Individual with Exceptional Ability in the National Interest” by the U.S. Government and has served as program committee member for six international conferences, as keynote speaker, published 15+ research papers, and 5 patents.
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Dr. Luiz Cheim, Hitachi Energy: AI Workshop AI/Machine Learning in the Power Industry (READ MORE)
Hitachi Energy
Dr. Luiz Cheim, Senior Principal R&D Engineer
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Marcel Hilgers, thyssenkrupp: Steel: Collaborative approaches for a resilient and sustainable supply chain for transformers (READ MORE)
thyssenkrupp
Marcel Hilgers, Vice President Customers, Markets & Technology
Speaker’s bio
Marcel believes in listening to his customers and creating solutions to serve their true needs. With over 20 year experience in global steel business, and thereof more than 10 years serving the transformer industry, he now works intensely on the green transformation of both, steel and transformers.
Marcel leads the sales, technical customer engineering and communications team at thyssenkrupp Electrical Steel – the European and Indian market leader in grain oriented electrical steel.
His key priority today is to inform the electricity industry about options to decarbonize the grid and to form alliances across raw material suppliers, transformer makers and electric utilities.
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László Schunder, GANZ: Road to Sustainability (READ MORE)
Ganz Transformers and Electric Rotating Machines Ltd.
László Schunder, Chief Operations Officer
Abstract
László Schunder (Mr.), Chief Operational Officer of GANZ Transformers and Electrical Rotating Machines Ltd., will present on how to address the challenge of the differences in the operating environment of a company’s products to optimise the minimisation of environmental impacts. Significantly different energy mixes across countries can make a big difference in the size of the carbon footprint, given the very long lifetime of the product. We needed to understand these differences in order to meet our customers’ and our own expectations.
Speaker’s bio
László Schunder joined the GANZ Transformers and Electrical Rotating Machines Ltd. team and the wonderful world of transformer manufacturing two years ago. During the previous two decades, he worked for several automotive and electronics companies, specializing in organization building, change management and supply chain design. Currently, as COO, he is working to ensure that Ganz serves the growing needs of its customers as efficiently as possible. In addition to his work, he also lectures at universities to help future economists.
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Bozena Odobasic, KONCAR – Distribution and Special Transformers: The building blocks towards a green business (READ MORE)
KONCAR – Distribution and Special Transformers
Bozena Odobasic, Sustainability specialist
Abstract
When met with a concept as comprehensive as sustainability, the road towards it seemed unreachable as a never-ending mountain climb. However, at some point, one looks back and realizes they’ve already climbed far up. KONCAR – D&ST’s path was similar and determined by various queries and requests from our customers. The learning curve on how we can contribute to their efforts was steep and often time consuming. When the subject of sustainability started becoming an imperative for our customers as well as the EU legislation, it seemed like another hard climb ahead, but since we’ve successfully tackled all previous challenges the building blocks that paved the way towards sustainability were already set.
Speaker’s bio
Bozena Odobasic is the young new Sustainability specialist who joined KONCAR – Distribution and Special Transformers team in 2023. This marks her first foray into the world of sustainability in the transformers industry. As a graduate of the Sustainable Biotechnology Master’s degree from Aalborg University in Denmark, she has a strong foundation on what sustainability encompasses and how to apply it in the industry. Within her current role she is also responsible for non-financial reporting of the company as well as coordinating all projects relating to sustainability.
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Andrew T. Holden, Ergon: Ordered Chaos: Understanding and applying the governing principles of the global dielectric liquid market (READ MORE)
Ergon
Andrew T. Holden, Dielectric Liquids – North America
Abstract
Understanding the global dielectric liquid markets is essential for manufacturers and end-users in our industry. Recent years have been filled with tremendous growth, increased complexity of liquid options, and an increased need for efficiency in global distribution. Each liquid type has undergone its own unique challenges in recent years, but the underlying principals governing energy markets, market economics, and global supply and demand can help us create a framework to better what has happened, why it has happened, and what that might mean for the future.
Speaker’s bio
Andrew T. Holden, P.E. leads Ergon’s dielectric liquids in North America. He is a professional engineer with a B.S. in Industrial & Systems Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology and an MBA in Finance & Marketing from Georgia State University. He has almost 25 years of experience as a power supply consultant for U.S. electric power companies, selling products and services to global OEMs responsible for manufacturing custom engineered equipment, and working with multinational engineering firms on projects throughout the world.
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Dr. Hugo Campelo, Nynas: Beyond ROI: Return on sustainability of the new transformer oils (READ MORE)
Nynas
Dr. Hugo Campelo, Senior Technical Advisor
Abstract
Return on sustainability of the new transformer oils – beyond price
The gap between what is really achieved and all the net zero scenarios already available will depend on the speed of our actions. Using already available solutions, and in some cases using them in the existing infrastructure, means speed and real implementation on a scale.
Sustainability is a level-playing field to achieve critical societal goals of decarbonization and the return on sustainability is much broader than the traditional return on investment indicators used to take investment decisions.
In this work, multiple cases of different transformers in different contexts will be analyzed and the impact of the newly available transformers oils will be assessed in terms of the overall return on sustainability.
Speaker’s bio
Dr. Hugo Campelo has more than 15 years of experience in the transformer industry. He is a chemical engineer and has an industrial PhD on the thermal modelling of large shell-type power transformers from University of Porto, Portugal.
From 2006 to 2009 he started researching thermal management of transformers as a consultant, and in 2010 he joined Efacec Transformers Business Unit. Up to 2023 he cross-cut different R&D and engineering roles in Efacec, from research and development to the global management of the technology of the group. In 2023 he joined Nynas as a technical expert on the application of transformer oils in power transformers, distribution transformers, instrument transformers and switchgear. Hugo currently supports technical sales and marketing to external customers and end-users across Europe, Middle East and Africa.
He authored multiple publications related to transformers modelling, testing and monitoring of transformers. He is a CIGRE expert actively involved in multiple Working Groups and a member of IEC Spanish TC 10.
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Mark Lashbrook, MIDEL: The path to zero – a roadmap to more sustainable synthetic ester transformer liquids (READ MORE)
MIDEL
Mark Lashbrook, Technical Director
Abstract
There is enough compelling evidence now to necessitate robust action on climate change. Many economies have targets to be net zero by 2050, but the challenge is getting there while still meeting the world’s increasing electrical energy demands. Denser urbanisation and distributed generation also put more pressure on transformers located close to population, meaning a fire safe solution is ever more necessary.
Choosing a transformer liquid is not just a case of selecting a product with a lower initial carbon footprint; we must also ensure we protect the planet and natural resources for other needs. This presentation will aim to shed light on the use of a mass balance approach for producing dielectric liquids and the roadmap to a more sustainable, safe transformer liquid based on synthetic ester.
Speaker’s bio
Mark Lashbrook received a BEng(Hons) degree in electrical and electronic engineering from Loughborough University in 1995. Following graduation, he joined the semiconductor industry. He spent the next 12 years working in a variety of engineering roles for major IC manufacturers, including Fujitsu Microelectronics and Intel before joining M&I Materials Ltd as a Development Engineer for MIDEL ester liquids in 2007.
Mark is now the Technical Director for MIDEL & MIVOLT Fluids Ltd and Product Director for the MIVOLT product group, which is focused on the use of ester-based dielectric liquids for immersion cooling of batteries, power electronics and data centres.
Mark’s work in the field of alternative dielectric liquids over the last 16 years has encompassed R&D, applications support, and a wide number of publications in magazines and events worldwide.
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Pedro del Amo Alonso: Shell: Transformer oils innovation journey. From uninhibited to high grade circular modern oils (READ MORE)
SHELL
Pedro del Amo Alonso, OEM Manager
Abstract
Circularity and sustainability are becoming more important, and this accelerates the switch towards long-life, easy-to-recycle, high-grade inhibited oils.
This presentation also gives a compact overview of leading international specifications (IEC/ASTM) for modern transformer liquids, with a focus on the specifications for mineral oils, and a compact guidance in liquid selection, based on these specifications, market trends and requirements.
Shell has more than 80 years of experience in transformer oils and extensive involvement in global industrial transformer oil bodies, and is developing high performance transformer liquids, providing additional benefits for the end-users/operators and OEMs around the world with supply chain flexibility, which becomes more important to deal with developments.
Speaker’s bio
Pedro del Amo has been working at Shell since 2016, having a special focus on Power business and transformer oils. Currently, he is the OEM Manager for EMEA at Shell Lubricants Projects & Technology and is based in Spain. An IEC TC10 and CIGRE member, Pedro is working internally at Shell in the development of new GTL high-grade modern oils, and together with OEMs and grid companies during the approval process, providing technical advice for mineral and biodegradable oils.
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Shah Mohammadi, Mohammad Reza, DNV: Towards a Sustainable Future: Joint Industrial Efforts in Standardization of Power Transformer Sustainability (READ MORE)
DNV
Mohammad Shah (Moh), Principal Consultant and Team Leader, Transmission & Distribution Technology Department
Speaker’s bio
Mohammad Shah (Moh) is a highly experienced team lead in the Transmission and Distribution Technology Department, where he oversees the overhead line team and leads innovation and technology roadmap initiatives. With over 10 years of experience in the energy sector, he has provided consulting services for numerous international TSOs, including TenneT TSO, 50Hertz, Elia Group, Statnett, KEPCO, CLP Power, and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Mohammad Shah has published several journal papers on the design and optimization of energy structures.
Throughout his career, Mohammad has taken on numerous leadership roles, including leading renewable power plant due diligence, investment due diligence, and bankability studies in the high voltage field. He has also served as a technical consultant for regulatory-related projects on national and international large transmission projects for regulatory authorities and TSOs. As a consultant at DNV, Mohammad led several innovation projects, including new tower design using composite materials, smart inspection using AI and multi-spectral imaging, and extreme weather condition indexing like downburst and galloping.
Mohammad Shah earned a M.S. in Energy System Engineering from the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm and a Doctorate of Energy System from the University of Coimbra, both under the European Marie Curie Fellowship.
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Paola Pachera, Essex Italy Srl: Sustainability and Industrial Processes Efficiency: A Smart Legacy to the Future of Power Transformers (READ MORE)
Essex Italy Srl
Paola Pachera, Process Engineering Manager
Abstract
Presently, the common worldwide target for sustainable production is to reduce the environmental impact in terms of consumption, pollution, and emissions. This objective is particularly challenging for energy-intensive companies, such as CTC producers. From the extraction of raw materials (copper) to the entire supply chain and industrial processes, pollution is a significant concern, exacerbated by the long distances raw materials must travel.
Essex Energy is committed to making our business more sustainable by utilizing alternative energy sources and working with recycled copper. Simultaneously, we are exploring multiple strategies to enhance the efficiency and performance of our production processes. Our aim is to reduce the energy required per kilogram for the production of our finished products.
We are also actively developing smart and innovative industrial processes that optimize CTC design. These innovations enable us to offer high-performance products with reduced environmental impact. By using less energy, fewer solvents, and generating fewer emissions, we can provide our customers with a greener choice.
Speaker’s bio
Paola Pachera graduated from the University of Padova in Italy with a degree in bioengineering in 2012. She gained her PhD in Industrial Engineering (Chemical, Materials, and Mechanical Engineering) from the same university in 2016. Until January 2017, she had a post-doctoral fellowship at the Centre for Mechanics of Biological Materials at the University of Padova. Until 2018, she was a process engineer at Sweden&Martina, working in the field of medical devices. She also worked as a process engineer at Livanova in the same field until June 2020. She worked and currently works as a process engineering manager at Essex Italy Srl in the field of energy.
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Natasha Jovanova/Alexander Doutrelepont, TRENCH GROUP: REGENERA® RIS Bushings: Innovative Eco-Friendly Solutions for Sustainable Transmission Systems (READ MORE)
TRENCH GROUP
Natasha Jovanova, Sustainability Officer
Abstract
In response to the growing demand for electricity and the urgent need to address climate change, this work explores the critical role of innovative environmentally friendly high-voltage (HV) solutions in facilitating the energy transition. Trench Group, alongside its brands Trench and HSP, stands at the forefront of pioneering sustainable HV products through the holistic approach for sustainability- “REGENERA®”.
This work thoroughly explores the strategic importance of incorporating sustainable products such as RIS Bushings into transmission systems, highlighting their substantial contributions to safety, reliability and improved efficiency in the transmission system and enhanced operation and extended lifespan of power transformers, thus facilitating decarbonization efforts and addressing evolving energy challenges.
Speaker’s bio
Natasha Jovanova is a Sustainability Officer at Trench Group. Her role involves driving sustainability initiatives across 9 factories worldwide as well as providing sustainability insights in the development of sustainable products and services.
Natasha holds a Master of Science degree in Sustainable Energy Technologies from the Technical University of Eindhoven, complementing her background in Electrical Engineering. After her graduation she joined Siemens Energy and gained valuable experience in sustainability and business development.
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Alexander Doutrelepont/Natasha Jovanova, TRENCH GROUP: REGENERA® RIS Bushings: Innovative Eco-Friendly Solutions for Sustainable Transmission Systems (READ MORE)
TRENCH GROUP
Alexander Doutrelepont, Senior Product Manager
Abstract
In response to the growing demand for electricity and the urgent need to address climate change, this work explores the critical role of innovative environmentally friendly high-voltage (HV) solutions in facilitating the energy transition. Trench Group, alongside its brands Trench and HSP, stands at the forefront of pioneering sustainable HV products through the holistic approach for sustainability- “REGENERA®”.
This work thoroughly explores the strategic importance of incorporating sustainable products such as RIS Bushings into transmission systems, highlighting their substantial contributions to safety, reliability and improved efficiency in the transmission system and enhanced operation and extended lifespan of power transformers, thus facilitating decarbonization efforts and addressing evolving energy challenges.
Speaker’s bio
Alexander Doutrelepont, Senior Product Manager Bushings at Trench Group with its Brands Trench & HSP is a well-known expert for HV engineering in the field of power transformers and bushings. Within the last two decades he gained experience and offered solutions in several different fields such as Sales, Offer Management, Technical Support and Business Development always to support customers and partners to find reliable solutions. He holds a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the Technical University of Aachen, Germany.
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Martina Willman, MOBITRON AB: Revolutionizing Transportation Monitoring: Unleashing the Power of Online Data with Impact & Shock Recorder (READ MORE)
MOBITRON AB
Martina Willman, Marketing Manager
Abstract
Join us and discover the future of cutting-edge transportation monitoring systems! See the benefits of real-time tracking and the impact of recorded data. We will delve into the latest advances within Impact & Shock Recorder and emphasize the importance of effective monitoring, project management, and analysis capabilities both offline and online.
Speaker’s bio
Martina Willman has over fifteen years of expertise at Mobitron AB and a profound understanding of the company’s mission and vision. Martina’s commitment to quality and innovation has consistently driven Mobitron’s brand presence forward in the industry. Her proactive approach to customer communication ensures effective service delivery and fosters strong relationships, further strengthening Mobitron’s position as a trusted partner in the market.
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Christina Iosifidou, Siemens Energy: Enabling greener transformers with harmonized practices (READ MORE)
Siemens Energy
Christina Iosifidou, Head of Sustainability Grid Technologies
Abstract
Join us at the Transformer Magazine conference in Madrid as we unpack the journey of Siemens Energy towards sustainability and the enhancement of environmental performance within the energy sector. The first segment of our presentation highlights Siemens Energy’s notable sustainability milestones from the past year and provides a sneak peek into our exciting initiatives for the upcoming year. Our key message emphasizes the indispensability of quantifying and benchmarking environmental performance at both the organizational and product levels to facilitate impactful improvements.
Venturing into the second part of our presentation, we will unveil the Joint Industry Program (JIP) – a collaborative venture with DNV. This program is dedicated to formulating recommended practices for transformer lifecycle assessment. The outcomes of the program’s working packages will be shared, shedding light on the establishment of universal terminology, the recognition of pertinent standards, and the innovative methodologies incorporated for lifecycle assessment (LCA) analysis and evaluation.
As we draw our presentation to a close, we will provide a glimpse into the new working packages brewing within the JIP project. We encourage audience members to seize this opportunity to engage and contribute to this transformative project. Our aim is to cultivate a collaborative platform where we can collectively spearhead the decarbonization of the grid. Don’t miss this chance to be part of the conversation, sharing insights and learning from other industry frontrunners about this crucial undertaking.
Speaker’s bio
Christina Iosifidou is the Head of Sustainability Grid Technologies at Siemens Energy. In this role, she drives the decarbonization of products, solutions and services across the value chain. She holds a Masters degree in business engineering from the Technical University of Berlin. She started her carreer at Siemens Energy as PLM for Large Power Transformers, where she later worked as Global Innovation Sales Manager and gained valuable experiences in Austria and Brazil too. She strongly believes that decarbonization is not a choice; it’s a must to protect our planet for future generations. Achiving net zero is possible only by joining hands together, and for this goal, she involves all the relevant stakeholders to discuss strategies and, most importantly, to act.
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Tihomir Jakovic, KONCAR – Electrical Engineering Institute: Navigating sustainability challenges (READ MORE)
KONCAR – Electrical Engineering Institute
Tihomir Jakovic, Head of transformer and switchgear monitoring solutions
Abstract
As KONCAR navigates the dynamic landscape of sustainability, we face multifaceted challenges in effectively managing resources to secure a sustainable future. This presentation explores the intricate relationship between sustainability, company operations, and resource investment. By examining the current challenges and opportunities, we focus on how to integrate sustainable practices into their operations. Furthermore, we outline the crucial role of strategic resource investment in addressing sustainability challenges and fostering long-term viability.
Speaker’s bio
Tihomir is a seasoned engineer with over a decade of experience in the fields of R&D and product development. Within his current position at KONCAR – Electrical Engineering Institute he is involved in designing and delivering customized solutions to customers around the globe.
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Marius Grisaru/Paul Goncalves, MICAFLUID: Eco-Innovation in Power: Enhancing Transformer Longevity with MICAFLUID's Sustainable Oil Treatment Technologies (READ MORE)
MICAFLUID
Paul Goncalves/Marius Grisaru, Senior Independent consultant affiliate with Transformer Magazine
Abstract
This presentation showcases MICAFLUID’s revolutionary oil treatment technologies that significantly extend the operational life and efficiency of power transformers. Highlighting cutting-edge degassing and dehydration techniques, it demonstrates how these advancements not only enhance transformer performance but also contribute to environmental sustainability and reduced operational costs.
Speaker’s bio
Marius Grisaru is on a mission to support electrical engineers and transformer owners who maintain and run their priceless assets by carrying out the necessary oil testing and treatment. He has had more than 31 years of unique experience in global consulting, sampling, carrying out significant insulating oil tests, and transformer diagnosis – from design and energising to post-mortem examination. He is a trained electrician and holds an M.S. in analytical chemistry.
Mr. Grisaru has been publishing columns in Transformers Magazine since 2014 and, in addition. He has authored and co-authored a series of technical articles, IEC standards, CIGRE brochures, and presentations at international conferences on analytical chemistry of insulating oils and DGA.
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Eden Tang, Qingdao Yunlu Advanced Materials Technology Co., Ltd: Amorphous material solution to the sustainability and carbon neutral (READ MORE)
Qingdao Yunlu Advanced Materials Technology Co., Ltd.
Eden Tang, Overseas marketing manager of eastern Europe and Australia
Abstract
Eden Tang will be representing Qingdao Yunlu Advanced Materials Technology Co., Ltd. giving a speech on the “Amorphous material solution to the sustainability and carbon neutral”, amorphous material is an advanced and innovative soft magnetic materials, which has been widely used in power distribution, distribution transformer installed with Amorphous core has a lot of advantages over CRGO: Much lower loss, longer service life, better harmonic resistance.
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Ulrich Voss / Rolf Fluri, R&S Group: Status of Sustainability and Digitalization in Cast Resin Transformers (READ MORE)
R&S Group
Ulrich Voss, Group CSO
Abstract
Sustainability and Digitalisation in Transformer Industry is a famous topic everybody is talking about. A lot of activities and initiatives are ongoing – with a lot of focus on Large and Medium Power Transformers.
Less in focus are Distribution Transformers – Oil and Cast Resin.
Tesar Italy, as part of R&S Group producing Cast Resin Transformers, developed a product called EcoPlus2030. The newly designed Cast Resin Transformers significantly reduce the quantity of CO2 emissions compared to the existing European Tier2 regulation for Eco Design and follow the new European directives to meet 2030 targets.With this development, we are one of the frontrunners in Cast Resin Transformer business and the presentation will give some detailed information about EcoPlus2030 regarding CO2 Reduction, Circular Economy etc.
Speaker’s bio
Since 2023, Ulrich Voss has been the CSO of the R&S Intenrational Holding AG.
Prior to that, Mr. Voss was VP Sales in SGB SMIT GmbH leading the Sales of the Power Transformer Portfolio after 6 years as Head of Sales and Projects in SGB Regensburg Medium Power Transformers.
In 2015, Mr. Voss was the Head of Siemens Energy Division in Saudi Arabia located in Riyadh/Saudi Arabia.
His previous career steps in Siemens Transformer Business include the function of VP Global Sales Europe & Middle East, Vice President Global Sales & Strategy (BA) Transformers, and other Sales functions in Siemens Transformer Business.
Earlier, he worked for Siemens Industry as Industry/Water Technology Sales for Region Near & Middle East/Sub-Saharan Africa in Erlangen and Berlin and in parallel as Business Development Manager for the Region Near & Middle East.
Mr. Voss started his career in 1994 in Siemens Transformer factory Nuremberg as Project Manager and Key Account Sales.
Educational background
University Degree at Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg/Germany in Electrical Engineering Studies in 1994.
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Rolf Fluri / Ulrich Voss, R&S Group: Status of Sustainability and Digitalization in Cast Resin Transformers (READ MORE)
R&S Group
Rolf Fluri, Group CTO
Abstract
Sustainability and Digitalisation in Transformer Industry is a famous topic everybody is talking about. A lot of activities and initiatives are ongoing – with a lot of focus on Large and Medium Power Transformers.
Less in focus are Distribution Transformers – Oil and Cast Resin.
Tesar Italy, as part of R&S Group producing Cast Resin Transformers, developed a product called EcoPlus2030. The newly designed Cast Resin Transformers significantly reduce the quantity of CO2 emissions compared to the existing European Tier2 regulation for Eco Design and follow the new European directives to meet 2030 targets.With this development, we are one of the frontrunners in Cast Resin Transformer business and the presentation will give some detailed information about EcoPlus2030 regarding CO2 Reduction, Circular Economy etc.
Speaker’s bio
Rolf Fluri has been CTO of R&S International Holding AG since February 2015. Until March 2018, Rolf also headed the technical department of Rauscher & Stöcklin AG in Sissach and was a member of the management team of Rauscher & Stöcklin AG.
Rolf previously worked at Trench Switzerland AG in Basel, a former subsidiary of Siemens Schweiz AG, initially as deputy head of development for instrument transformers (2006 – 2013) and later as head of development for instrument transformers (March 2013 – January 2015).
Educational background:
2009 Executive MBA, SUPSI
2003 Diploma in Industrial Engineering NDS, FFHS Brig
1991 Dipl.-Ing. Electrical Engineer HTL, Brugg-Windisch and Biel
Other activities and vested interests:
Member of IEC working groups IEC TC10/MT22 and IEC TC38/JWG56 and member of IEEE Switzerland Section
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Luka Kovacic, KONCAR – Instrument Transformers: Setting new benchmarks in sustainable transformer manufacturing (READ MORE)
KONCAR – Instrument Transformers
Luka Kovacic, Electrical design engineer
Abstract
The presentation will demonstrate a multi-faceted approach to reducing carbon footprint of high voltage instrument transformers. The approach will entail the use of novel materials, namely biodegradable insulating liquids, supply chain optimization, both in terms of transport and raw material procurement and manufacturing process optimization. The impact of each of these aspects will be demonstrated. The approach will be showcased on a new product type, a combined current power voltage transformer type SVE, which is aimed at rural electrification application to bring carbon-neutral energy to the people who need it the most.
Speaker’s bio
Luka Kovacic is an electrical engineer with over 9 years of experience. He is currently working in KONCAR – Instrument transformers as an electrical designer. He holds a master’s degree from the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computing at the University of Zagreb, with a focus on electric machines and drives, power electronics and automation. He is currently enrolled in a postgraduate specialist programme „Transformers“ at the same faculty. His area of interest within the company product scope are reactors, power voltage transformers inductive and capacitive voltage transformers, as well as transformer faults and failure mode analysis.
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Sustainability workshop - Transformers Magazine & Partners
thyssenkrupp
Marcel Hilgers, Vice President Customers, Markets & Technology
and
Transformers Magazine
Mladen Banovic, Editor-in-Chief