Transformer Loading

Estimate distribution-transformer load by aggregating downstream meter telemetry against nameplate rating

Transformer loading turns meter telemetry into per-transformer load (aggregate kVA) compared to nameplate rating. Distribution transformers rarely report their own telemetry, so Texture derives their load by summing the readings of the meters downstream of each transformer and comparing the result to the transformer's rated capacity.

Why it works this way#

There is generally no direct telemetry on distribution transformers — even those within SCADA typically don't send transformer-level load. The only way to get loading is to aggregate downstream meter data up to the transformer through the grid topology. (Live SCADA can support a separate simulation approach, which requires its own validation.)

How it works#

  1. Match meters to transformers — use the grid topology to associate each meter with its upstream transformer.
  2. Sum the subtree — aggregate interval load across all meters downstream of the transformer.
  3. Compare to rating — measure the aggregate load against the transformer's rated kVA.

Computation#

Load is expressed in kVA: kVA = √(kW² + kVAR²) where reactive power is measured; where it isn't, a configurable assumed power factor (commonly ~0.95) is used. Accurate per-transformer nameplate ratings come from the GIS model, and rating-data quality is the usual gating factor for computing utilization.

:::important The rated capacity is the gating input Aggregating downstream load is the straightforward part; the missing piece is usually the transformer's rated kVA. GIS exports often expose several candidate rating fields, and confirming the correct one with the utility is a prerequisite for utilization. Without a rating, you can show load over time but not whether the transformer is over- or under-utilized. :::

What you see#

Transformer loading is delivered in stages:

  • Aggregated load (first) — click a transformer to see its aggregated downstream load over time, alongside its rating; and a list/table of transformers with their aggregated values.
  • Rating threshold line — the chart shows the rated capacity as a dotted threshold line, much like the ANSI lines on a voltage chart. The threshold is plus/minus: load can exceed it, and so can generation flowing the other way, so both directions matter.

Relationship to other concepts#

  • Meters — supply the interval energy that is summed.
  • Grid Topology & GIS — supplies the meter-to-transformer matching and the nameplate ratings.
  • SCADA — provides the substation-level control-system view; transformer loading complements it by giving distribution-transformer visibility where SCADA does not.