#tstynice

 In an era defined by rapid urbanization and the global transition toward renewable energy, the demand for reliable power distribution has never been higher. At the heart of this electrical revolution lies a critical component: the transformer. Today, we’re diving into why TSTY has emerged as a global leader in this space, providing the "beating heart" for power grids across 40+ countries.

Engineering Excellence Beyond Standard

What sets TSTY apart isn’t just that they build transformers; it’s how they build them. Based on the technical standards found at tstynice.com, it is clear that TSTY prioritizes a fusion of durability and high-tech efficiency. Their product lineup—ranging from oil-immersed and dry-type transformers to specialized prefabricated substations—is engineered to minimize energy loss. In the world of power distribution, even a 1% increase in efficiency can save thousands of megawatt-hours over a decade, and TSTY’s low-loss designs are hitting those benchmarks consistently.

Solutions for Every Environment

One of TSTY’s greatest strengths is versatility. They recognize that a transformer in a humid coastal city has different needs than one in a high-altitude mining site.

Oil-Immersed Transformers: Known for their superior cooling and insulation, these are the workhorses of heavy industry.

Dry-Type Transformers: Ideal for high-rise buildings, hospitals, and underground metros where fire safety and environmental protection are non-negotiable.

Smart Substations: TSTY is also leading the way in "Smart Grids," integrating monitoring technology that allows operators to track performance in real-time.

A Commitment to Global Sustainability

Energy efficiency is no longer just a financial choice; it is an environmental imperative. TSTY’s commitment to "Green Energy, Reliable Power" is reflected in their manufacturing process. By using high-permeability silicon steel cores and high-purity copper windings, they reduce "no-load" losses significantly. This makes them a preferred partner for wind farms and solar installations, where integrating fluctuating power sources requires a robust and responsive transformer interface.

The Verdict

Whether you are a grid engineer, a project developer, or a tech blogger covering the latest in industrial innovation, TSTY represents the gold standard of Chinese electrical manufacturing. They aren’t just selling hardware; they are providing the stability required to power our modern lives.

Discover why oil immersed transformers remain the backbone of global power distribution. Learn about their advantages, key applications in utility grids, renewable energy, and industrial plants, and how TSTY Electric delivers high-quality IEC/CQC/CE certified transformers worldwide.

Introduction: The Indispensable Role of Oil Immersed Transformers

The global transformer market is experiencing unprecedented growth, driven by rising electricity demand, grid modernization, and renewable energy integration. According to Persistence Market Research, the global transformer market is projected to grow from 65.7billionin2026to65.7billionin2026to96.8 billion by 2033 at a CAGR of 5.7%. At the heart of this market expansion lies the oil immersed power transformer—a proven, durable technology that has powered the world for over a century.

Oil immersed transformers remain the preferred choice for demanding applications such as utility substations, industrial manufacturing plants, renewable energy farms, and mining operations. Their ability to handle high voltage and heavy loads while delivering decades of reliable service makes them indispensable to modern power infrastructure. In this article, we will explore the technical advantages, diverse applications, and emerging market trends of oil immersed transformers—and why TSTY Electric is your trusted partner for high-quality transformer solutions.

What Makes Oil Immersed Transformers Superior?

The core design of an oil immersed transformer involves submerging the core and windings in insulating mineral oil or environmentally friendly ester oil. This oil serves two critical functions: electrical insulation and heat dissipation. The insulating oil efficiently transfers heat generated by the windings and core to the transformer tank and external cooling surfaces, allowing oil immersed transformers to handle significantly higher power ratings and overload conditions compared to dry-type alternatives.

One of the most significant advantages of oil immersed transformers is their superior heat dissipation performance. Mineral oil provides 8-to-12 times better heat dissipation than air-cooled dry-type units, enabling more compact designs at high power ratings. The oil also acts as a thermal buffer during temporary spikes, ensuring continuous operation even under demanding load conditions.

In addition to cooling, transformer oil offers excellent dielectric properties, enhancing insulation reliability and reducing the risk of partial discharge and insulation aging. With proper maintenance, oil immersed transformers can operate reliably for 30 to 40 years, delivering a lower total cost of ownership compared to other transformer types.

Critical Applications Across Industries

Oil immersed transformers are deployed across a wide spectrum of applications where reliability and high capacity are essential.

In power transmission and distribution, these transformers serve as backbones of high-voltage substations, stepping down transmission voltages to levels suitable for distribution networks while maintaining consistent voltage levels and minimizing energy losses. Utility grids worldwide rely on oil immersed units for reliable voltage regulation.

In industrial manufacturing, they provide reliable power for heavy machinery, motors, and variable production loads in steel plants, cement factories, chemical facilities, and mining operations—ensuring stable power under extreme thermal and mechanical stress.

Renewable energy integration represents a rapidly growing application. Wind and solar farms require heavy-duty transformers to convert intermittent generation into grid-ready power, and mounting global renewable capacity is creating new transmission needs that drive this demand.

Urban infrastructure—including metropolitan rail systems, airports, hospitals, and data centers—also relies on oil immersed transformers installed in traction substations to provide stable voltage for critical systems. Data center expansion itself drives transformer demand, with an estimated 74 GW of new electricity demand expected from U.S. data centers by 2028.

Technological Advancements and Energy Efficiency

Modern oil immersed transformers incorporate advanced technologies to improve efficiency, environmental sustainability, and intelligence. The mandatory GB 20052-2024 energy efficiency standard, effective February 2025, has raised the bar for transformer performance, requiring Tier 1 units to achieve 30-to-50 percent lower losses compared to Tier 3 models.

Innovations include amorphous alloy cores that reduce no-load losses by up to 70 percent compared to traditional S13 models, biodegradable ester oils that improve safety and reduce environmental impact, and smart monitoring systems that enable predictive maintenance and remote control.

TSTY Electric: Your Trusted Transformer Partner

TSTY Electric Co., Ltd., with over 30 years of power equipment manufacturing expertise and a National High-Tech Enterprise certification, offers a comprehensive range of oil immersed transformers designed to meet international standards. Our product line includes S9, S11, S13, S20, and S22 series, covering voltage ratings from 6.6 kV up to 220 kV and capacities from 15 kVA to 31,500 kVA.

Key technical characteristics of TSTY oil immersed transformers include fully sealed construction for maintenance-free operation, low loss and low noise design, high short-circuit resistance with no leakage, on-load tap changers for voltage regulation under load, and optional remote control capabilities for unmanned substation operation.

All TSTY products are backed by ISO 9001 factory certification and meet IEC, CQC, SGS, CE, and GOST standards, ensuring global competitiveness and reliability.

Conclusion: Power Your Future with TSTY

As the global transformer market continues its strong growth trajectory—driven by grid modernization, renewable energy integration, and industrial expansion—choosing the right transformer partner is more important than ever. TSTY Electric delivers high-quality oil immersed transformers engineered for demanding environments, with a full lifecycle service system and a proven track record in over 80 countries.

For custom solutions, technical specifications, or a competitive quote for your upcoming power infrastructure project, contact the TSTY Electric team today.

Contact TSTY Electric 🌐 Website: www.tstynice.com 📞 Telephone: +86-18135684124 ✉️ E-mail: [email protected]

Introduction The Global Shift Toward Integrated Solar Power Conversion

The global energy landscape is transforming at an unprecedented pace. According to recent market research, the global solar PV inverters market was valued at USD 14.27 billion in 2025 and is forecast to reach USD 21.16 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 6.79%. Behind this remarkable growth lies a fundamental shift in how large scale solar farms are designed and deployed. Developers, EPC contractors, and utility operators are moving away from fragmented component based systems toward fully integrated solutions that combine power conversion, voltage step up, and grid interconnection into a single, factory assembled unit.

This is where the photovoltaic inverter step up integrated unit—also known as the PCS step up transformer or PV boost substation—has emerged as the gold standard for utility scale solar projects. By integrating the central inverter (or multiple string inverters) with a step up transformer, high voltage switchgear, and intelligent monitoring systems, these all in one solutions dramatically simplify project execution, reduce balance of system costs, and accelerate grid connection timelines.

What Is a Photovoltaic Inverter Step Up Integrated Unit

A photovoltaic inverter step up integrated unit is a prefabricated, skid mounted or containerized power conversion and transformation system designed specifically for utility scale solar farms, commercial rooftop PV installations, and solar plus storage projects. Its core function is twofold: first, to convert the direct current (DC) electricity generated by solar panels into alternating current (AC) using inverters; and second, to step up the low voltage AC output (typically 0.6 kV to 0.69 kV) to medium voltage levels of 10 kV, 35 kV, or even 66 kV for efficient transmission and grid interconnection.

Beyond these core functions, the integrated unit houses low voltage distribution compartments, communication and monitoring systems, high voltage switchgear, and protection relays within a single weatherproof enclosure. By integrating the inverter and step up transformer into one unified system, the unit eliminates redundant components, reduces cabling losses, and minimizes the overall system footprint. For battery energy storage systems, the same platform can integrate a bidirectional PCS with a step up transformer to support advanced grid services such as peak shaving, load shifting, and frequency regulation.

Why the Market Is Moving Toward Integrated Solutions

Several converging trends are driving the rapid adoption of photovoltaic inverter step up integrated units across global markets.

First, project economics favor integration. Traditional designs require separate procurement, installation, and interconnection of inverters, transformers, switchgear, and auxiliary equipment—each from potentially different suppliers, each requiring individual site assembly, wiring, and testing. An integrated unit shifts the majority of this work from the field to the factory, reducing on site installation time by up to 50 percent, lowering labor costs, and accelerating revenue generation.

Second, grid codes are becoming more stringent. Utility operators increasingly require solar farms to provide grid support functions such as reactive power compensation, low voltage ride through, frequency response, and remote dispatch capability. Integrated units with intelligent controllers and communication interfaces are inherently better equipped to meet these requirements.

Third, the convergence of solar and storage is accelerating. As battery energy storage systems (BESS) become standard companions to utility scale solar, the ability to integrate PCS with step up transformers and energy storage interfaces within a single platform simplifies hybrid project design and enables advanced energy management strategies.

2026 Market Pulse Africa’s Solar Revolution Gains Momentum

Across Africa, the demand for photovoltaic inverter step up integrated units is surging as governments accelerate renewable energy deployment to address chronic power shortages, reduce reliance on expensive diesel generation, and meet climate commitments. Several recent developments highlight the urgency and scale of this transformation.

South Africa remains the continent’s most dynamic solar market. The country’s latest Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) targets 28.7 GW of new solar PV capacity by 2039, with a clear commitment to sustained renewable energy rollout through 2030. In the 2026 Budget Speech, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana emphasized infrastructure investment and energy reform, while President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a new investment target of R2 trillion over the next five years to transition the economy toward cheap, green energy sources at scale. The South African Photovoltaic Industry Association (SAPVIA) has called for 2026 to be the year the industry moves from “exclusive” solar to “inclusive” energy security, advocating for modernized distribution networks that unlock decentralized solar to transform rural economies. For utility scale solar farms and large C&I installations across South Africa’s sun rich Northern Cape and Free State provinces, photovoltaic inverter step up integrated units offer a proven, bankable solution for rapid grid connection.

Nigeria is tackling its power crisis through distributed solar solutions. The recently announced USD 750 million DARES project aims to deploy approximately 1,350 solar mini grids across the country, including 250 interconnected systems designed to feed electricity directly into local distribution networks. Meanwhile, the Nigerian Independent System Operator (NISO) is actively studying battery energy storage systems—an area the country has largely overlooked until now—to support renewable energy integration. In Abuja, the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) has inaugurated a 1 MW solar hybrid system combining generation, battery storage, distribution networks, and smart metering. As Nigeria scales from mini grids to larger distributed and utility scale installations, photovoltaic inverter step up integrated units will play a critical role in ensuring reliable, grid compliant power conversion.

Egypt is pursuing an aggressive renewable energy expansion under direct presidential directives. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has ordered the government to accelerate completion of solar projects amid an ongoing power crisis, with Minister of Electricity Mahmoud Essmat confirming that 2026 will see 2,500 MW of new renewable energy connected to the unified national grid. More ambitiously, Egypt plans to add 3 GW of new solar capacity in 2026 alongside 600 MW of battery energy storage capacity before summer, raising total grid linked storage to 1.1 GW. A 500 MW solar project is scheduled for grid connection in May 2026, with a 1,700 MW solar project planned for Minya. The government’s broader target is to raise clean energy’s share of the electricity mix to 45 percent by 2028. For Egypt’s sprawling desert solar parks, integrated step up units with high IP protection against dust and sand are essential for long term reliable operation.

Across these markets, the continued decline in energy storage costs is proving transformative. The Africa Solar Industry Association (AFSIA) has identified storage on a hockey stick growth trajectory, with annual increases of three fold, ten fold, and even eleven fold, driven by sustained cost reductions. This convergence of solar and storage further underscores the value of integrated power conversion platforms.

TSTY Electric’s Photovoltaic Inverter Step Up Integrated Unit Engineered for African Conditions

TSTY Electric Co., Ltd., with over 30 years of power equipment manufacturing expertise and a National High Tech Enterprise certification, offers a complete range of photovoltaic inverter step up integrated units designed to meet the specific demands of utility scale solar projects across Africa’s diverse and often harsh environments.

TSTY’s YBF series wind and photovoltaic substation is specifically engineered for renewable energy generation systems. It steps up low voltage power from 0.6 kV to 0.69 kV—generated by photovoltaic panels or wind turbines—to medium voltage levels of 10 kV or 35 kV, delivering power stably to the grid. The unit integrates an energy storage converter, busbar bridge, low voltage compartment (including communications and power distribution), oil immersed transformer (with integrated oil immersed load switches and full range fuses), high voltage cable compartment, and protective enclosure.

For customers requiring dry type transformers for indoor or fire sensitive applications, TSTY’s SCB18 series epoxy resin cast dry type transformers deliver Tier 1 energy efficiency with losses reduced by more than 30 percent compared to conventional designs. These dry type units are ideal for commercial rooftop installations, data center solar integration, and building attached PV systems where safety and low noise are paramount.

Key technical features of TSTY’s photovoltaic inverter step up integrated unit include:

High Protection Class: The unit achieves IP54 protection for high and low voltage compartments, while the oil immersed transformer tank reaches IP68—fully submersible and sealed against moisture, dust, and sand ingress. This makes the unit exceptionally well suited for Africa’s desert, coastal, and high dust environments.

Wide Operating Temperature Range: Engineered for extreme climates, the unit operates reliably from -40°C to +55°C without performance derating. Customized high temperature designs are available for the hottest regions.

Anti Corrosion and Weather Resistance: The enclosure undergoes specialized shot blasting and anti corrosion treatment, with C4 and C5 protection options available for coastal and industrial environments. This ensures long term durability against salt spray, UV radiation, and sand erosion.

Integrated Oil Immersed Step Up Transformer: The built in oil immersed transformer serves as both the insulating medium and cooling system for high voltage components, significantly reducing safety clearances and enabling a more compact footprint. For projects requiring enhanced fire safety, dry type transformer alternatives are also available.

Factory Pre assembly and Pre commissioning: More than 90 percent of the system integration is completed at TSTY’s 5G enabled smart factory. The unit arrives on site as a complete, tested solution, reducing field installation time by approximately 50 percent and accelerating project commissioning.

Smart Monitoring and Remote Control: The transformer tank can be equipped with pressure gauges and thermometers featuring communication interfaces. Load switches can be fitted with limit switches, enabling remote monitoring, operation, and SCADA integration. This supports unmanned operation and predictive maintenance strategies.

Modular and Scalable Design: TSTY’s units are available in containerized, skid mounted, and American style configurations, with capacity ranges from 1 MW to 10 MW per unit. Multiple units can be paralleled for large scale solar farms exceeding 100 MW.

Comparative Advantages Over Traditional Approaches

When compared to conventional inverter plus transformer deployments, TSTY’s integrated unit delivers measurable advantages. The elimination of separate foundations, cable trenches, and interconnection wiring reduces civil works costs by 15 to 20 percent. Factory integration ensures consistent quality and eliminates field wiring errors. Single source procurement simplifies supply chain management and provides a single point of responsibility for warranty and after sales support. For EPC contractors and project developers operating on tight schedules and demanding performance guarantees, these advantages translate directly to improved project margins and reduced execution risk.

Applications Across the Solar Value Chain

TSTY’s photovoltaic inverter step up integrated units serve a wide range of applications:

Utility Scale Solar Farms: Ground mounted PV plants ranging from 10 MW to 500 MW benefit from containerized or skid mounted integrated units that minimize land use and simplify layout.

Commercial and Industrial Rooftop Solar: For factories, shopping malls, and office buildings, compact integrated units with dry type transformers provide safe, low noise power conversion and grid connection.

Solar Plus Storage Hybrid Projects: The same platform supports bidirectional PCS integration, enabling peak shaving, load shifting, frequency regulation, and emergency backup power.

Agricultural Solar and Solar Irrigation: In rural areas, integrated units provide reliable step up conversion for solar powered irrigation and agricultural processing facilities.

Microgrids and Island Systems: For remote communities and industrial off grid sites, integrated units serve as the core power conversion hub for solar plus storage plus diesel hybrid systems.

Global Certifications and Quality Assurance

All TSTY photovoltaic inverter step up integrated units and associated components—including oil immersed transformers, dry type transformers, and switchgear—are manufactured in TSTY’s ISO 9001 certified 5G digital smart factory. The company operates a CNAS accredited testing laboratory and holds 158 core patents. Key international certifications include IEC, UL, CQC, SGS, CE, and GOST, ensuring full compliance with the technical standards required for grid interconnection across Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas.

TSTY’s manufacturing processes achieve 15 percent lower energy consumption compared to industry averages, and the company has been recognized as a National Green Factory. The full lifecycle carbon footprint of TSTY’s products complies with EU standards, supporting global carbon neutral objectives.

Why Choose TSTY Electric for Your Solar Project

With products delivered to more than 80 countries and overseas offices established in Zambia, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Colombia, and Italy, TSTY has built a reputation as a reliable global partner in power equipment solutions. The company’s full lifecycle service system includes professional pre sales engineering support, real time production tracking, factory inspection coordination, logistics monitoring, and comprehensive after sales service with 48 hour emergency response worldwide.

As the world accelerates toward renewable energy, battery energy storage systems (BESS) have become essential for grid stability and energy independence. At the core of every BESS lies the energy storage converter and step‑up integrated unit – a compact, factory‑prefabricated substation that combines a bidirectional power conversion system (PCS) with a step‑up transformer, high‑voltage switchgear, low‑voltage distribution, and intelligent monitoring in one enclosure.

Available in European (dry‑type), American (oil‑immersed), and Huashi configurations, this unit efficiently stores green energy from solar or wind power. When needed, it converts DC battery power into grid‑compliant AC and steps up the voltage to 10kV or 35kV for stable transmission. Its bidirectional power conversion capability allows both charging (grid to battery) and discharging (battery to grid), making it ideal for peak shaving, load shifting, frequency regulation, and renewable energy smoothing.

Key applications include:

Grid‑scale energy storage – Utilities use these units to provide fast frequency response, spinning reserve, and voltage support, enhancing overall grid stability.

Commercial & industrial (C&I) storage – Factories, data centers, and shopping malls deploy them for peak‑to‑valley arbitrage and demand charge reduction, cutting electricity bills by 20‑30%.

Microgrids and off‑grid systems – Islands, mining sites, and remote villages rely on them to integrate solar, wind, and diesel generators, ensuring continuous power without grid connection.

Renewable power plants – Solar and wind farms smooth output fluctuations, store excess energy, and improve grid compliance.

Emergency backup – Critical facilities (hospitals, telecom towers) use these units for instant backup during grid outages.

Technical advantages – The unit features a fully sealed enclosure (IP54 for HV/LV compartments, IP68 for oil tank), anti‑corrosion coating (C4/C5), and wide operating temperature (-40°C to +55°C). Dry‑type transformers offer fire‑resistant, maintenance‑free operation; oil‑immersed types provide higher cost‑effectiveness and better heat dissipation. Intelligent monitoring (RTU with RS485/Ethernet, IEC 61850) enables remote data acquisition, fault alarming, and unattended operation – reducing on‑site service costs.

All TSTY energy storage converter and step‑up integrated units are CE, IEC, UL, ISO, and SASO certified, ensuring smooth grid acceptance and customs clearance worldwide. With over 30 years of power equipment experience and deliveries to 80+ countries, TSTY provides turnkey solutions that accelerate the energy transition.

Whether you are developing a 10MW grid‑side BESS or a 500kW C&I storage project, an integrated PCS‑transformer unit simplifies system design, saves space, and cuts installation time by up to 50%.

 TSTY ELECTRIC – Dedicated Compact Substation for Renewable Energy Generation

TSTY ELECTRIC proudly presents its Dedicated Compact Substation for Renewable Energy Generation – a high‑performance, prefabricated high‑voltage/low‑voltage substation that integrates high‑voltage switchgear, transformer core, protective fuses (all inside the oil tank), low‑voltage switchgear, and complete auxiliary equipment into one compact unit.

Designed as a dedicated step‑up solution, it raises the voltage from renewable energy grid‑tied inverters (or AC generators) to 10 kV or 35 kV, then efficiently delivers power to the grid via a 10 kV or 35 kV line. It is the ideal companion for solar, wind, and other renewable energy systems.

Why Choose TSTY ELECTRIC’s Substation?

Compact structure, small footprint; external radiator for superior heat dissipation : TSTY maximises space efficiency – perfect for distributed renewable projects.

Incorporates our latest transformer series technology – rational structure, safe and reliable : Engineered by TSTY with decades of electrical expertise.

Transformer oil serves as insulating medium for 10 kV or 35 kV side, greatly reducing safety clearances : Safer & more compact – a result of TSTY’s innovative oil‑immersed design.

Fully enclosed enclosure isolates oil from atmosphere, reducing oxidation and moisture ingress; fin‑type radiators for easy disassembly and simple maintenance : TSTY’s sealed architecture ensures long‑term system stability and low maintenance.

Special shot‑blasting surface treatment – excellent anti‑corrosion, anti‑solar radiation, and sand‑erosion resistance : Ruggedised for harsh environments – a hallmark of TSTY quality.

Low‑voltage side uses latest intelligent circuit breakers and moulded case air circuit breakers – high breaking capacity, excellent protection : TSTY integrates advanced LV protection for maximum operational safety.

Transformer tank can be equipped with pressure gauges / thermometers with communication interfaces; load switch can be fitted with limit switch – enabling remote monitoring, operation and maintenance : Smart ready – TSTY supports remote SCADA and IoT integration.

Fully sealed enclosure – IP54 for HV/LV compartments, IP68 for the transformer itself : Highest protection class – TSTY guarantees reliability even in extreme conditions.

TSTY ELECTRIC – Your Trusted Partner in Renewable Energy

Why Photovoltaic Step Up Substations Are Critical for Solar and Storage Projects

As solar and battery storage projects grow larger and more complex, the need for reliable, space saving power conversion and grid connection solutions has never been greater. One key piece of equipment that makes large scale renewable energy possible is the photovoltaic step up substation, also known as a prefabricated substation or compact substation for solar and storage applications.

In this article, we will explain what a step up substation does, why it is essential for PV and BESS projects, and what to look for when choosing a supplier.

What Is a Photovoltaic Step Up Substation?

A photovoltaic step up substation is an integrated unit that combines a high voltage switchgear, a step up transformer (oil immersed or dry type), a low voltage distribution panel, and optionally a power conversion system (PCS) or inverter interface. Its main job is to convert the low voltage AC output from solar inverters or battery systems into medium voltage electricity suitable for grid transmission.

Typical voltage conversions include stepping up from 0.48kV, 0.69kV, or 0.8kV to 10kV, 20kV, 33kV, 35kV, or even 66kV. The entire assembly is housed in a weatherproof, fully enclosed steel enclosure that is moisture proof, dust proof, fire proof, and corrosion resistant.

Why Are These Substations So Important?

Without a step up substation, the electricity generated by a solar farm or discharged from a battery bank cannot be efficiently transmitted over long distances. Low voltage power suffers from high line losses and cannot be synchronized with medium voltage grids.

By placing a step up substation close to the generation source, developers can minimize cable losses, reduce installation time, and lower overall project costs. The skid mounted or containerized design also eliminates the need for extensive on site civil works, making it ideal for fast track projects.

Key Applications

Utility scale solar farms use step up substations to connect inverter stations to the collector grid and then to the transmission line. Battery energy storage systems integrate bidirectional PCS with step up transformers to support peak shaving, load shifting, and frequency regulation. Industrial and commercial solar plus storage projects deploy compact pad mounted units to reduce demand charges and provide backup power. Wind farms, remote microgrids, EV charging hubs, and floating solar plants also rely on these substations.

What to Look for in a Step Up Substation

When sourcing a photovoltaic step up substation, consider the following technical parameters:

Power rating from 500kVA to 10MVA per unit

Low voltage side options: 0.48kV, 0.69kV, 0.8kV, or 1.14kV

Medium voltage side options: 10kV, 20kV, 33kV, 35kV, or 66kV

Cooling: ONAN, ONAF for oil immersed; forced air for dry type

Enclosure protection: IP54 to IP65, with anti corrosion coating up to C5 M

Certifications: IEC 60076, IEEE C57, CE, SGS, ISO9001, UL available

Optional bidirectional PCS integrated for BESS applications

Why Choose TSTY Electric?

TSTY Electric has over 30 years of experience in power equipment manufacturing. Our 250,000 square meter smart factory produces more than 25,000 transformers annually. We hold IEC, CE, SGS, UL, and ISO9001 certifications, and operate a CNAS accredited testing laboratory with 158 core patents.

Our photovoltaic step up substations are delivered to more than 80 countries, with overseas offices in Zambia, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Colombia, and Italy. We provide 24 hour online support and 48 hour emergency response worldwide. As a National Green Factory and National High Tech Enterprise, we are committed to energy efficient and environmentally friendly solutions.

Final Thoughts

As the world accelerates toward renewable energy, the role of step up substations will only become more important. Whether you are developing a 50MW solar farm, a 100MWh BESS, or an industrial microgrid, choosing a reliable, pre engineered step up substation can save time, reduce risk, and improve project economics.

As the global energy transition accelerates and energy efficiency standards for power equipment continue to rise, dry-type transformers are rapidly becoming the core choice for power distribution systems. Whether in high-rise buildings, data centers, rail transit systems, or renewable energy plants, dry-type transformers – with their outstanding safety, environmental friendliness, and maintenance‑free operation – are replacing traditional oil‑immersed transformers as the “new standard” in many fields.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of dry-type transformer technology, market trends, regulations, and application scenarios, offering professional guidance for your equipment selection and procurement.

1. What Is a Dry-Type Transformer?

A dry-type transformer is a transformer whose core and windings are not immersed in insulating oil. Its key technical feature is the use of air or solid insulating materials (such as epoxy resin or Nomex paper) instead of conventional transformer oil. Cooling is achieved by natural air circulation (AN) or forced air cooling (AF). Under AN conditions, the transformer can operate continuously at rated capacity; with AF, the output capacity can be increased by about 50%.

The operating principle is based on Faraday’s law of electromagnetic induction: the magnetic core transfers magnetic energy, and the difference in turns between the high‑voltage and low‑voltage windings changes the voltage level. The process involves no moving parts, and energy conversion efficiency typically exceeds 95%.

2. Key Advantages of Dry-Type Transformers

Compared to traditional oil‑immersed transformers, dry‑type transformers offer the following core benefits:

2.1 Safe, Fire‑Resistant & Pollution‑Free

Because they contain no oil, dry‑type transformers eliminate the risk of fire or explosion caused by oil leakage. Windings are encapsulated with epoxy resin or Nomex insulation, achieving a UL94 V‑0 fire rating – ideal for confined spaces such as subways and hospitals. Moreover, they can be installed close to the load center without requiring a separate transformer room, saving valuable building space.

2.2 Low Maintenance & Lower Total Cost of Ownership

There is no need for regular oil level checks, oil quality tests, or oil replacement. Routine maintenance is limited to periodic cleaning and inspection of fasteners. Maintenance intervals can be extended by more than 30%, significantly reducing long‑term operating costs.

2.3 Low Losses, Low Noise, High Efficiency

Dry‑type transformers have 10‑20% lower no‑load losses and 5‑10% lower load losses than conventional oil‑immersed units, meeting the latest national energy‑efficiency standards. For the same core material, Tier 1 (highest efficiency) dry‑type transformers offer the greatest energy savings. Operating noise is typically below 55 dB thanks to optimized design, making them suitable for indoor installation.

2.4 High Adaptability & Wide Application Range

Dry‑type transformers can operate normally at altitudes up to 3000 m and withstand temperatures from -30 °C to +50 °C. Anti‑humidity and anti‑salt‑spray designs make them suitable for coastal or damp environments. By 2025, mainstream products have achieved IP67 ingress protection and can operate reliably from -40 °C to 150 °C.

2.5 Environmentally Friendly – Supporting the “Dual Carbon” Goals

Dry‑type transformers emit no harmful substances during operation and do not require SF₆ (a greenhouse gas) as an insulating medium. More than 95% of their materials can be separated and recycled. Under China’s “Dual Carbon” strategy, dry‑type transformers have become the preferred choice for green power infrastructure.

3. Industry Standards & Energy Efficiency Policies

3.1 Key National Standards

GB/T 10228-2023 Technical parameters and requirements for dry‑type power transformers – Effective since December 1, 2023, for indoor three‑phase dry‑type transformers with rated capacity ≥30 kVA and voltage classes 6/10/20/35 kV.

GB 20052-2024 Minimum allowable values of energy efficiency and energy efficiency grades for power transformers – A mandatory national standard effective from February 1, 2025, adding energy efficiency requirements for transformers used in renewable energy generation.

GB/T 1094.11-2022 Power transformers – Part 11: Dry‑type transformers – The Chinese adoption of the corresponding IEC standard.

3.2 Energy Efficiency Upgrade Policy

Since 2025, China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) and other authorities have continued to promote transformer energy efficiency improvements. Grid companies have phased out all S7 transformers and distribution transformers that have been in operation for more than 25 years and do not meet the minimum energy access level. The share of energy‑efficient transformers (those meeting Tier 2 or above) in operation has increased by more than 10 percentage points compared to 2021.

Notably, GB 20052-2024 requires that Tier‑1 dry‑type transformers have no‑load losses at least 30% lower than the Tier‑3 access threshold. Choosing high‑efficiency dry‑type transformers is therefore not only an environmental responsibility but also an effective way to reduce costs and increase profitability.

4. Global Market Trends & Outlook

According to leading market research firms, the global dry‑type transformer market is growing strongly:

2025 global market value: ~US$6.83 billion

Forecast 2026–2034: from ~US$7.18 billion (2026) to ~US$12.15 billion (2034) at a CAGR of 6.80%.

Asia‑Pacific leads the global market, holding 36.02% of the share in 2025, driven by rising power infrastructure investment and rapid urbanisation.

The U.S. dry‑type transformer market is expected to reach US$2.64 billion by 2032, supported by renewable energy grid integration and grid modernisation.

In China, driven by the 15th Five‑Year Energy Plan, the domestic dry‑type transformer market is forecast to reach 28.6 billion RMB in 2026, with energy saving, intelligence, and scenario‑specific customisation as the main development directions.

Emerging Application: Data Centres

The market for dry‑type transformers used in data centres is booming. In 2025, global revenue from data‑centre dry‑type transformers was approximately RMB 7.89 billion, and by 2032 it is expected to approach RMB 19.21 billion, with a CAGR of 13.6% – far above the industry average. The rapid construction of AI computing centres and edge data centres is becoming one of the strongest growth engines for the dry‑type transformer market.

5. Typical Applications of Dry‑Type Transformers

Thanks to their unique technical advantages, dry‑type transformers are widely used in many critical fields:

5.1 Commercial Buildings & High‑Rise Towers

Dry‑type transformers can be installed inside electrical rooms on intermediate floors, eliminating the need for a dedicated transformer substation – a perfect fit for super high‑rise buildings. For example, the Ping An Finance Centre in Shenzhen uses dry‑type transformers with a three‑dimensional heat dissipation structure, increasing power density by 30% and reducing footprint by 25%.

5.2 Data Centres & Cloud Infrastructure

Dry‑type transformers are the preferred medium‑to‑low voltage conversion device for data centres, especially in high‑density or confined spaces. Their excellent overload capability, minimal environmental impact, and quieter operation make them widely used in hyperscale and edge data centres. The newer, ultra‑efficient SCB18 dry‑type transformers are becoming the go‑to choice for data centres pursuing extreme energy savings.

5.3 Rail Transit & Airports

The fire‑resistant and low‑noise characteristics of dry‑type transformers make them ideal for subways, high‑speed railway stations, and airports. On Guangzhou Metro Line 18, compact dry‑type traction transformers reduced weight by 40%, perfectly meeting tunnel clearance constraints.

5.4 Renewable Energy Power Plants

Offshore wind farms and photovoltaic (PV) stations require transformers with high weather resistance and corrosion resistance. The anti‑salt‑spray dry‑type transformers used at the Yangjiang offshore wind farm in Guangdong have a maintenance‑free period extended to 10 years.

5.5 Industrial Plants & Chemical Parks

In semiconductor fabs and chemical plants – where electromagnetic interference (EMI) sensitivity or explosion‑proof requirements are high – dry‑type transformers also excel. TSMC’s Nanjing fab selected low‑noise dry‑type transformers with EMI intensity controlled below 1 V/m, ensuring the accuracy of lithography equipment.

6. How to Choose the Right Dry‑Type Transformer

When planning a project, consider the following factors:

6.1 Energy Efficiency Class

Give priority to Tier 1 or Tier 2 products. For example, the SCB18 series currently offers the highest energy efficiency among dry‑type transformers in China, with no‑load losses approximately 10‑15% lower than the SCB14 series and load losses 5‑8% lower.

6.2 Rated Capacity & Voltage Class

Select capacity based on the load profile, leaving a 10‑20% margin. For impact loads (e.g., motor starting), consider the starting current (typically 5‑7 times the rated current) and choose a model with fast dynamic response.

6.3 Environmental Adaptability

High temperature → Prefer Class H or Class C insulation.

High humidity → Choose anti‑condensation design.

Coastal or chemical plants → Opt for anti‑salt‑spray and anti‑corrosion types.

6.4 Smart Features

Modern dry‑type transformers can integrate fibre‑optic temperature sensing, IoT terminals, and RS485/Modbus communication interfaces, allowing seamless connection to building automation systems or energy management platforms for remote monitoring and fault alerts.

6.5 Manufacturer Qualifications

Select a manufacturer with national fixed‑point production qualifications, ISO quality system certification, and international approvals (UL, CE, etc.) to ensure product quality and after‑sales support.

7. Conclusion – Meet TSTY ELECTRIC at the 139th Canton Fair

Dry‑type transformers are core components of modern power systems and are facing unprecedented opportunities. Whether you are planning a commercial complex, a data centre, a renewable energy project, or upgrading the distribution system for a factory or industrial park, choosing a reliable and efficient dry‑type transformer is a critical step toward project success.

TSTY ELECTRIC has many years of experience in the electrical equipment manufacturing industry, focusing on the R&D and production of high‑quality dry‑type transformers. Our products are exported to many countries and regions around the world. We cordially invite you to visit us at the 139th Canton Fair for face‑to‑face discussions!ItemDetailsEvent139th Canton Fair (China Import and Export Fair)DateApril 15–19, 2026VenueCanton Fair Complex, Guangzhou, ChinaBooth No.16.3C03

We look forward to meeting you in Guangzhou to discuss power system optimisation and a greener future together!

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Where Oil Immersed Transformers Shine – Real-World Applications

Oil immersed transformers are the workhorses of global power infrastructure. Thanks to their robust design, high overload capacity, and excellent heat dissipation, they perform reliably in some of the harshest environments on earth.

1. Solar & Wind Farms Renewable energy projects often sit in remote areas – deserts, coastlines, or highlands. TSTY’s oil immersed transformers handle temperature swings from -40°C to +70°C, with corrosion-resistant coatings for offshore wind and coastal solar farms.

2. Industrial Power Distribution Mines, oil & gas facilities, and manufacturing plants demand continuous operation. Our transformers provide stable voltage regulation and withstand frequent load changes, keeping production lines running.

3. Grid & Substation Backbone From 11kV distribution networks to 220kV transmission lines, oil immersed transformers step voltage up or down efficiently. They are the core of compact substations and prefabricated substations for urban and rural grids.

4. Emergency & Mobile Substations When a transformer fails, every hour counts. Our units are available for quick replacement, with options for mobile substation rentals to restore power rapidly.

Why TSTY? With 30 years of experience, IEC/CE/SGS certifications, and 80+ countries served, TSTY delivers oil immersed transformers that are built to last – and backed by global support.