Hitachi Energy is supplying transformers featuring low-carbon copper to TenneT Germany. This initiative is part of a broader supply chain decarbonization program aimed at reducing the embedded emissions of critical power grid infrastructure. By integrating materials with a lower carbon footprint, the partnership targets the reduction of Scope 3 emissions. This move highlights the growing importance of sustainable procurement in the transition to a decarbonized energy grid.
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Low carbon copper is a start, but the real bottleneck for TenneT is usually permitting and physical installation timelines. Does this material change affect the lead times for these transformers, or is it just a carbon accounting win?
It is likely a procurement requirement. Germany is tightening the screws on supply chain reporting. If TenneT wants to hit its targets, they have to force the OEMs like Hitachi to source cleaner raw materials.
Interesting to see the focus shift to embedded carbon in the hardware. Most people just talk about the electricity flowing through the wires, not the carbon cost of the copper inside the transformer.
Exactly. Scope 3 is where the real work is. The question is whether there is a price premium for this copper and who is paying for it, the utility or the end consumer.
