Analysis of power distribution transformers’ failure in rural electrification projects in Kenya

Reliable, safe and stable power distribution network is pivotal for realization of a steady economic growth in a country. Power distribution transformers play an important role to enhance this stability and efficiency in national grid networks and power distribution companies. To enhance sustainability and reliability in these grid-lines performance, customer satisfaction and profitability of the grid services should be optimally maintained and in sound state. Typically, the distribution transformers used in Kenya are Oil-immersed type which has a general lifespan of 25 to 30 years; this notwithstanding, they fail in large numbers, within the first 3 years of operation or even during commissioning, due to various reasons causing enormous economic and service impact on the distribution utilities as well as the power consumers. In this study, a detailed discourse on the causes of failure in distribution transformers and possible recommendations to mitigate these challenges have been discussed with reference to data collected from Rural electrification and renewable energy corporation transformer stores and field project reports. The results show a clear indication that both power line factors and manufacturers’ defects have great impact on these failures. The conclusion and recommendations will be crucial to inform future grid line designs and policies’ formulations for the optimal functionality of these transformers.