Within the energy transition, the strong adoption of distributed energy resources (DERs) combined with the continuing electrification of buildings and transportation, as well as the need to meet clean energy goals, pushes utilities to search for easy and effective technologies to enable them to keep up with these trends while providing safe, reliable and affordable power.

Learn how Pepco Holdings (PHI) and ComEd identified two different applications for which the voltage regulating distribution transformer (VRDT) was considered the best investment alternative and the experiences they gained throughout the process, from purchase and commissioning to first operation.

In the case of PHI, a single-phase 50 kVA overhead VRDT increases the hosting capacity of a neighborhood, allowing for more rooftop solar installations. Meanwhile, at ComEd, a three-phase 10 MVA padmount VRDT, equipped with a smart recloser and communications, optimizes the efficiency of their CVR/VVO program. Both technologies incorporate an on-load tap changer (LTC) into the distribution transformer.

The panel will delve into these use cases and discuss the strategic deployment of VRDTs, exploring where their implementation is most beneficial and when it may not be as effective.