Powering Industry with Safety, Efficiency, and Innovation
Transformers and electric machines are essential components in the infrastructure that powers Europe’s industrial, commercial, and public sectors. As their use continues to grow, so does the need for clear, harmonized standards that ensure safety, reliability, energy efficiency, and environmental compliance.
Standardization for Power Transformers and Related Equipment
CEN and CENELEC, through their dedicated technical committees, are actively engaged in the development of European Standards that support both innovation and regulatory compliance in the field of electric motors and transformers.
CLC/SR 96 – Transformers, reactors, power supply units, and combinations thereof
The subcommittee CLC/SR 96 develops standards covering:
- Safety and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC)
- Electromagnetic fields (EMF)
- Energy efficiency and environmental considerations
Working closely with its IEC counterpart, CLC/SR 96 covers a wide range of equipment, including transformers, reactors, power supply units, and their combinations, supporting both domestic and industrial applications.
CLC/TC 14 – Power Transformers
CLC/TC 14 focuses on power transformers, tap-changers, and reactors used in generation, transmission, and distribution of electrical power. While typically covering:
- Single-phase transformers above 1 kVA
- Polyphase transformers above 5 kVA
- Transformers with high-voltage windings of 1000V or more
The scope also includes lower voltage transformers and voltage regulators used in energy delivery systems.
This committee plays a key role in supporting the Ecodesign Regulation (EU) 2019/1783, helping manufacturers meet requirements for energy performance and environmental impact.
CLC/TC 38 – Instrument Transformers
CLC/TC 38 develops European Standards for instrument transformers used for AC and/or DC current and voltage measurement. These standards cover:
- Sensing components and devices
- Signal treatment and data conversion
- Analogue and digital interfacing
Where possible, international (IEC) standards are adopted or adapted to ensure global consistency and interoperability
CLC/TC 2 – Rotating machinery
Most of the development and maintenance standardization work for rotating electrical machines is done by IEC/TC 2 on international level, supported by CLC/TC 2 in Europe developing European harmonized content. In case the work would not be handled by IEC/TC2 then CLC/TC 2 will develop a European standard(s) giving specifications and rules for rotating electrical machines. On request by the Commission, CLC/TC2 will harmonize standards respecting the requirements set by the European legislation for example by considering ecodesign requirements implemented in Directive 2009/125/EC and its regulation (EU) 2019/1781, and essential health and safety requirements Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU.
Main aspect in general business environment is energy and material efficiency. Energy efficiency is a major trend not affected by economical down or upturns.
Driving European Leadership in Electrical Engineering
Through the work of these technical committees, CENELEC ensures that European standards for electric motors and transformers:
- Promote safety and system reliability
- Enhance energy efficiency and sustainability
- Support EU regulatory frameworks and market needs
These efforts are critical in enabling the energy transition, modernizing Europe’s electrical infrastructure, and positioning Europe as a leader in smart, green technologies.
