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Reported by: Nicole Kilmer Tuesday, Feb 26, 2008 @03:41pm CST (Chicago, Illinois) - ComEd began using pole-top transformers filled with a home-grown renewable source -- soybean oil -- as part of a new commitment to benefit the environment, customers, and Illinois soybean farmers.
The use of soy oil is part of a comprehensive environmental strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower the carbon footprint of Exelon, its subsidiaries and customers.
Cooper Power Systems estimates ComEd will reduce annual carbon dioxide emissions by more than 5,500 tons per year by using overhead transformers with soy oil insulation fluid, compared to using petroleum-based mineral oil. With this new commitment, ComEd will eliminate the need for about 111,000 gallons of petroleum-based mineral oil per year. ComEd first began using soy oil in 2002 in underground transformers and in building vault transformers.
Cooper Power Systems says testing has shown the fluid will increase the useful life of transformers. This enhanced transformer performance combined with its more environmentally desirable profile may provide cost-saving opportunities and improve electric service reliability.
The amount of soy oil needed to fill 4,000 of these transformers will require the harvesting of about 50,000 bushels of soybeans from farmers in the region. Illinois ranked number two in soybean production in the nation in 2007.
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