Upgraded transformer insulation paper could save Norway NOK 25bn

Researchers at SINTEF and NTNU (with industry partners Statnett and Elvia) report that switching to thermally upgraded, nitrogen-infused insulation paper can substantially extend transformer lifespans and reduce future grid replacement costs.

• Main announcement: The authors state that using higher-grade insulation paper can double transformer lifespans, potentially cutting replacement needs by half and yielding savings of about 25 billion NOK (ca. €2.1 billion) based on Norway’s ~1,300 large transformers acquired over the past 25 years (measured in 2024 acquisition costs). The research that produced the innovation cost 42 million NOK (ca. €3.6 million), funded equally by public and private sources.
• Background and implementation details: SINTEF and NTNU began long-term studies in the 1980s with Statnett and Elvia; most recent large transformers in Norway are already built with thermally upgraded paper. The upgraded paper permits roughly +8°C operating temperature for the same lifespan and an estimated ~5% capacity increase, enabling operators to temporarily run transformers harder and delay procurement; the 25 billion NOK figure assumes normal operating conditions and full realization of lifespan extension.