Transformers and power electronics: Overview
The silent boxes that change voltage and switch AC to DC
What this tile covers Equipment that changes voltage and switches between AC and DC. Share of use 21% share of final energy use (2024)Share of world total final energy consumption (about 435 EJ, calculated: motor systems 13,462 TWh are 53% of electricity, so about 25,400 TWh or 91 EJ, and electricity is about 21% of final energy) that passes through this device or is used by this sector, latest year available. Electricity-based devices use electricity's 21% share of final energy (IEA WEO 2025). Overlaps between devices and sectors are allowed and noted. Practically all grid electricity passes through at least one transformer, and a growing share through inverters and rectifiers, so the tile takes electricity's whole share of final energy (21%). Upper bound; overlaps every electrical tile. Source: World Energy Outlook 2025, International Energy Agency.
Key facts
| Chain | AC → DC → AC |
Included from the reference tables
- Transformers
- Rectifiers and inverters
- Converters and chargers
Linked to the material world
Cu CopperSi SiliconGa GalliumAlso in Conversion devices
ST Steam turbines and thermal power plantsCCGT Gas turbines and combined cycleICE Internal combustion engines and gensetsGen Generators and alternatorsMot Electric motors and drivesFC Fuel cellsElz ElectrolysersHP Heat pumps, air conditioning and refrigerationEH Electric heatingLED Lighting and displaysBlr Boilers, furnaces and stovesExplore paths from here
More on this tile in the tabs above: science and limits, value chain, unit economics, engineering methods, equipment and suppliers.