A certain amount of the energy distributed to consumers via the Swiss electricity grid is lost in the form of heat in transmission lines and transformers. Distribution transformers are used for reducing the voltage from a level between 1kV and 50 kV (the normal levels distributed to numerous industrial consumers) to a level between 120 V and 1 kV (levels normally distributed to households and the services sector). The energy efficiency of distribution transformers can be improved by using the best available technologies and result in significant electricity savings.
On 1 June 2015, Switzerland introduced efficiency regulations for transformers with a minimum capacity of 1 kVA that are used in the transmission and distribution networks or for industrial applications. The new provisions are in conformity with those of the European Union.
