Vegetable Oil Powers a Greener Future for Transformers

After two decades of pioneering research, Essential Energy has proven that vegetable oil offers a safe, eco-friendly alternative to traditional mineral oil in transformer insulation, paving the way for greener energy systems. Since 2004, Essential Energy has led the industry in testing and validating the use of vegetable oils, gathering data that shows these oils can outperform mineral oil in many ways.

Senior Engineer Dan Martin and Engineering Manager Lindsay McPherson head the Essential Energy team that started using vegetable oil in transformers next to National Parks in 2005. Vegetable oils have a higher fire point than mineral oil, making them a safer option in locations where fire risk or environmental sensitivity is a concern. Currently, Essential Energy operates 22 transformers filled with vegetable oil near protected sites, including heritage locations and ecologically sensitive areas.

Continuous testing over 20 years on acidity, oxidation, and moisture levels confirms that vegetable oil maintains stability under extreme conditions, such as power outages and high temperatures. According to Martin, “Our data shows these transformers could last 60 years, and we’re confident they’ll continue running for another 20–30 years.”

Essential Energy’s journey with vegetable oils dates back to the early careers of both McPherson and Martin. McPherson, who began his work in electrical utilities in 1973, has seen firsthand the benefits of transitioning to plant-based insulators. Martin, who earned his PhD researching vegetable oils for transformer use, says that interest in plant-based oils is rapidly growing. Oils like soybean or canola could soon insulate other energy systems as the shift to renewables intensifies.

A Vision for a Sustainable Energy Future

While mineral oil remains essential in the power industry, Essential Energy is proving that integrating plant-based oils can lead to safer, more sustainable systems. As McPherson explains, “Vegetable oil isn’t just keeping transformers running smoothly; it’s helping pave the way for environmentally-friendly energy solutions.”

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