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US Faces Major Transformer Shortfall as New Tariffs Signal Higher Costs

Wood Mackenzie warns that utilities may wait up to five years for deliveries with imports set to cover most 2025 demand due to stagnant domestic capacity

Overview

  • Since 2019, US power transformer demand has risen by about 119% and distribution transformer demand by roughly 41% driven by electrification and renewable projects
  • Wood Mackenzie projects a 30% supply deficit for power transformers and a 10% shortfall for distribution units in 2025
  • Imports are expected to account for approximately 80% of US power transformer supply and 50% of distribution transformer supply next year
  • Tariffs under the One Big Beautiful Bill, including a 50% levy on copper, will take effect in August and are forecast to push unit costs higher
  • Manufacturers have announced $1.8 billion in North American capacity expansions since 2023 but analysts say further standardization, workforce development and raw‐material initiatives are needed to prevent prolonged shortages