The record
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- Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited (KPTCL) plans to replace mineral oil with vegetable-derived ester oil in high-capacity transformers across the state over the next year.
- Although ester oil costs more per litre (₹275 vs ₹213 for mineral oil), officials say it resists ignition, is biodegradable and non-toxic, and extends transformer life.
- KPTCL, which operates 3,754 transformers, has already converted 45 units using over 1,500 litres of ester oil worth more than ₹8 lakh, beginning with a 2017 pilot at Harapanahalli substation near Davangere.
- The move aims to upgrade transformers over 15 years old and cut environmental risks, following similar use by power grids in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Mumbai.
What to watch next
- Progress of KPTCL's rollout of ester oil conversions across the remaining transformers over the coming year
- Whether the stated cost savings from fewer damaged transformers materialise compared with the higher procurement cost
- Adoption of ester oil by other state power grids, as reported for Gujarat, Maharashtra and Mumbai
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Named India · Gujarat · Karnataka · Maharashtra · Mumbai · Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation Limited · Tata Power
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