Introduction: It has been recognised that due to the forecasted changing loads at Low Voltages (LV) network peak loading and particularly distribution transformers may become a limiting factor in developing smart networks. Primary transformers and those at higher voltage have received a great deal of attention in recent years due to their high capital value and relatively small population and their performance and aging is fairly well understood, however distribution transformers have undergone little if any recognised research into better understanding their technical and economic performance.

Electricity North West has approximately 33,000 distribution transformers both ground and pole mounted and many different designs exist with a large spread of ages and condition, this project is aimed at developing ENWLs ability to understand and define the effects of higher loading on distribution transformers and the benefits of available intervention strategies by installing 10 distribution transformers with internal and external sensors.

Objectives: The project aims to enhance Electricity North West 's ability to:

• Understand loading of existing distribution transformers

• Understand and assess condition of distribution transformers

• Enhance loading of distribution transformers.