This is the GridReadiness monthly transformer intelligence report for May 2025. It covers lead time updates from European manufacturers, notable movements in the used equipment market, and grid connection developments across France, Germany and the UK.

LEAD TIME SUMMARY — MAY 2025

Large Power Transformers (100 MVA+) — Major OEMs ABB: 52–60 months (unchanged from April)
Siemens Energy: 48–56 months (unchanged)
Hitachi Energy: 50–58 months (unchanged)
GE Vernova: 44–52 months (slight improvement in Q2 slot availability)
Medium Power Transformers (10–100 MVA) — Second Tier Pauwels (BE): 24–32 months (unchanged)
TMC (IT): 20–28 months (unchanged)
Efacec (PT): 22–30 months (improved by 2 months from April)
Schneider Electric (FR): 18–26 months (unchanged)

NOTABLE DEVELOPMENTS THIS MONTH

Efacec capacity improvement

Efacec in Portugal has reported improved production capacity following completion of a workshop expansion in Q1 2025. Lead times for the 20–80 MVA range have shortened by approximately 2 months. This makes Efacec the most competitive option for medium power applications in the current market.

US buyer enquiries at European manufacturers up significantly

Multiple European manufacturers have reported a significant increase in enquiries from North American buyers in April and May 2025. Several manufacturers note that North American projects are now representing 15–25% of their enquiry volume, up from under 5% in 2023. Production slots are being absorbed accordingly.

Used market: two significant units available

GridReadiness has identified two used HV transformers from industrial decommissioning currently available in France and Belgium. Details available to newsletter subscribers on request. Both units have been tested and carry documentation.

GRID CONNECTION UPDATES

France

RTE has published updated S3REnR capacity maps for Grand Est and Hauts-de-France regions showing available substation capacity at several 63kV and 225kV nodes. These maps identify locations where connection studies can begin immediately with confirmed capacity. GridReadiness has shortlisted 6 sites for detailed analysis.

Germany

No significant change. Frankfurt interconnection queue remains effectively closed for new large consumers. Brandenburg continues to offer the best alternative in Germany for projects able to accept distance from major internet exchanges.

UK

National Grid has updated its connection queue data. South-east England interconnection wait times have extended further. Scottish markets remain the most accessible for new large connections.

NEXT REPORT

The June 2025 report will include a special focus on switchgear lead times — the underreported constraint that is becoming the critical path item for projects that have already secured transformer slots. Subscribe to receive it on publication.