Powering Industry with Safety, Efficiency, and Innovation
Transformers and electric motors 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, and Power Supply Units
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
CLC/TC 2 develops European harmonized standards giving specifications and application rules for rotating machines and their mechanical vibration of these machines. Most of the maintenance and development is done by IEC/TC 2 on international level, supported by CLC/TC 2 in Europe developing European harmonised content.
The EN standards on rotating machines cover for example the Eco-design requirements by taking into account essential requirements implemented in Directive 2009/125/EC, as far as Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU and Electromagnetic Compatibility Directives 2014/30/EU.
Main aspect in general business environment is energy efficiency. Energy efficiency is a major trend not affected by economical down or upturns. In that TC/SC's can influence only a little bit while CLC/TC 2 can influence quite a lot into motor efficiency classifications and their extension.
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.
