"Energy Dept. Finalizes Transformer Rule to Protect Jobs and Strengthen Grid Reliability"

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has finalized energy efficiency standards for distribution transformers, aiming to bolster the nation's power grid, support domestic manufacturing jobs, and deliver billions in energy savings. The updated standards, with a longer compliance timeline of five years, are projected to save American utilities and businesses $824 million annually in electricity costs and increase demand for core materials like grain-oriented electrical steel (GOES). The move is expected to protect and create jobs in Pennsylvania and Ohio, reduce carbon emissions, and enhance the efficiency of the electrical grid, while aligning with President Biden's industrial policy goals.