Key Insights
The European smart transformers market, valued at €1.56 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by the increasing demand for efficient and reliable power distribution within the region. A Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 23.38% from 2025 to 2033 indicates a significant expansion, primarily fueled by the widespread adoption of smart grids and the growing electrification of transportation systems. The increasing integration of renewable energy sources, coupled with the need for advanced grid management solutions, further boosts market demand. Key segments driving this growth include distribution transformers and power transformers, serving applications like smart grids and traction locomotives. Leading players like Hitachi Energy, Siemens, Schneider Electric, and Eaton are strategically investing in R&D and expanding their product portfolios to cater to this burgeoning market. The strong government support for renewable energy initiatives and energy efficiency across several European nations, especially Germany, France, the UK, and Italy, contributes significantly to the market's upward trajectory.
However, the market faces certain restraints. High initial investment costs associated with smart transformer installations might hinder adoption, especially among smaller utilities. Furthermore, the complexity of integrating smart transformers into existing grid infrastructures and concerns regarding data security present challenges. Nonetheless, the long-term benefits of enhanced grid efficiency, improved reliability, and reduced transmission losses are anticipated to outweigh these challenges, fostering continued market expansion throughout the forecast period. The rise of innovative technologies like AI and advanced analytics in grid management is expected to further propel market growth in the coming years. This makes the European smart transformers market an attractive prospect for investors and industry stakeholders.

Europe Smart Transformers Industry: A Comprehensive Market Report (2019-2033)
This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the European smart transformers market, encompassing market dynamics, growth trends, regional dominance, product landscape, key players, and future outlook. The report covers the period 2019-2033, with a focus on the base year 2025 and a forecast period of 2025-2033. The study delves into the parent market of power transformers and the child markets of distribution transformers and specific applications within the smart grid and traction locomotive sectors. Market values are presented in million units.
Europe Smart Transformers Industry Market Dynamics & Structure
The European smart transformers market is characterized by moderate concentration, with key players like Hitachi Energy Ltd, Siemens AG, Schneider Electric SE, Eaton Corporation PLC, and General Electric Company vying for market share. The market is driven by technological innovations, stringent regulatory frameworks promoting renewable energy integration, and the increasing demand for grid modernization. Competitive substitutes include conventional transformers, but smart transformers offer superior efficiency and grid management capabilities. End-user demographics are primarily utilities, industrial facilities, and railway operators. M&A activity remains relatively low, with approximately xx deals in the historical period (2019-2024), suggesting a focus on organic growth.
- Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding xx% market share (2025 estimate).
- Technological Innovation: Driven by advancements in sensor technology, data analytics, and communication protocols.
- Regulatory Framework: Stringent EU regulations on energy efficiency and grid modernization are key drivers.
- Competitive Substitutes: Conventional transformers, but smart transformers offer significant advantages.
- End-User Demographics: Utilities, industrial facilities, railway operators.
- M&A Trends: Low M&A activity (xx deals, 2019-2024), indicating organic growth preference.
Europe Smart Transformers Industry Growth Trends & Insights
The European smart transformers market exhibited a CAGR of xx% during the historical period (2019-2024), reaching a market size of xx million units in 2024. This growth is anticipated to continue, with a projected CAGR of xx% from 2025 to 2033, driven by the increasing adoption of smart grids, the expansion of renewable energy sources, and the modernization of railway infrastructure. Market penetration of smart transformers in the distribution transformer segment is estimated at xx% in 2025, with significant potential for growth in other segments. Technological disruptions, particularly in areas such as AI-driven grid optimization and advanced sensor technologies, are further boosting market growth. Consumer behavior shifts toward sustainable energy solutions also contribute positively to demand. The report provides detailed analysis of these trends, encompassing a granular examination of market size evolution, adoption rates, technological breakthroughs, and shifting consumer behaviors across different application segments.

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Europe Smart Transformers Industry
Germany, France, and the UK are the leading countries in the European smart transformers market, driven by robust grid modernization initiatives and significant investments in renewable energy infrastructure. The smart grid application segment holds the largest market share, followed by distribution transformers and traction locomotives. The growth in the smart grid segment is primarily attributed to increasing electricity demand, the integration of renewable energy sources, and the need for improved grid resilience and efficiency. The distribution transformer segment is characterized by high penetration of smart transformers due to their relatively lower cost compared to power transformers. The traction locomotive segment showcases substantial growth potential due to the ongoing electrification of railway networks across Europe.
- Key Drivers:
- Germany, France, UK: Strong government support for renewable energy and grid modernization.
- Smart Grid Application: High electricity demand, renewable energy integration, grid resilience needs.
- Distribution Transformers: Cost-effectiveness and ease of integration.
- Traction Locomotives: Railway electrification initiatives across Europe.
Europe Smart Transformers Industry Product Landscape
Smart transformers incorporate advanced sensors, communication interfaces, and data analytics capabilities to provide real-time monitoring, grid optimization, and improved reliability. These advancements enable predictive maintenance, reducing downtime and operational costs. Unique selling propositions include enhanced efficiency, improved grid stability, and reduced environmental impact through optimized energy distribution. Key technological advancements include the integration of AI/ML algorithms for predictive maintenance and the adoption of advanced communication protocols for seamless data exchange.
Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Europe Smart Transformers Industry
Key Drivers: The increasing adoption of renewable energy sources, the need for grid modernization, stringent environmental regulations, and government incentives are propelling the growth of the smart transformers market.
Challenges: High initial investment costs, complex installation procedures, cybersecurity concerns, and a lack of skilled workforce pose significant challenges to market expansion. Supply chain disruptions, particularly regarding critical components, also impact market growth. Estimates suggest that supply chain issues have resulted in a xx% delay in project completion for some key market players.
Emerging Opportunities in Europe Smart Transformers Industry
Emerging opportunities lie in the expansion into untapped markets, such as Eastern European countries with less developed grid infrastructure, and the development of innovative applications, such as microgrids and smart city initiatives. The increasing demand for electric vehicles and the development of new charging infrastructure also present substantial growth potential. Furthermore, advancements in battery storage technologies offer synergistic opportunities for enhancing the functionalities of smart transformers.
Growth Accelerators in the Europe Smart Transformers Industry
Technological breakthroughs in AI-driven grid management, advanced sensor technology, and secure communication protocols are key growth catalysts. Strategic partnerships between transformer manufacturers and software companies are creating integrated solutions that optimize grid performance and enhance energy efficiency. Government policies promoting renewable energy integration and grid modernization will further propel market expansion.
Key Players Shaping the Europe Smart Transformers Industry Market
- Societa Elettromeccanica Arzignanese SpA
- Hitachi Energy Ltd
- Siemens AG
- Schneider Electric SE
- Eaton Corporation PLC
- GBE SpA
- General Electric Company
- Westrafo SRL
Notable Milestones in Europe Smart Transformers Industry Sector
- March 2023: Ganz Transformers and Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen collaborate to manufacture digital transformers using MR's ISM platform.
- February 2023: UK Power Networks launches Project Stratus, a trial using Amp X's smart transformer technology.
In-Depth Europe Smart Transformers Industry Market Outlook
The European smart transformers market is poised for substantial growth, driven by sustained investments in grid modernization, the increasing penetration of renewable energy, and ongoing technological advancements. Strategic partnerships, innovative product development, and favorable government policies will further accelerate market expansion, creating significant opportunities for key players in the coming years. The market is expected to reach xx million units by 2033.
Europe Smart Transformers Industry Segmentation
-
1. Type
- 1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 1.2. Power Transfomers
-
2. Application
- 2.1. Smart Grid
- 2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 2.3. Other Applications
Europe Smart Transformers Industry Segmentation By Geography
- 1. Germany
- 2. United Kingdom
- 3. Spain
- 4. France
- 5. Italy
- 6. Nordic Countries
- 7. Russia
- 8. Turkey
- 9. Rest of Europe

Europe Smart Transformers Industry REPORT HIGHLIGHTS
Aspects | Details |
---|---|
Study Period | 2019-2033 |
Base Year | 2024 |
Estimated Year | 2025 |
Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
Historical Period | 2019-2024 |
Growth Rate | CAGR of 23.38% from 2019-2033 |
Segmentation |
|
Table of Contents
- 1. Introduction
- 1.1. Research Scope
- 1.2. Market Segmentation
- 1.3. Research Methodology
- 1.4. Definitions and Assumptions
- 2. Executive Summary
- 2.1. Introduction
- 3. Market Dynamics
- 3.1. Introduction
- 3.2. Market Drivers
- 3.2.1. 4.; Increasing Adoption of Smart Technology in Power Grid Infrastructure4.; Aging of Transmission and Distribution (T&D) Infrastructure
- 3.3. Market Restrains
- 3.3.1. 4.; Low Accessibility to Electricity in Underdeveloped Nations
- 3.4. Market Trends
- 3.4.1. Distribution Transformers to Dominate the Market
- 4. Market Factor Analysis
- 4.1. Porters Five Forces
- 4.2. Supply/Value Chain
- 4.3. PESTEL analysis
- 4.4. Market Entropy
- 4.5. Patent/Trademark Analysis
- 5. Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 5.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 5.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 5.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 5.2.1. Smart Grid
- 5.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 5.2.3. Other Applications
- 5.3. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Region
- 5.3.1. Germany
- 5.3.2. United Kingdom
- 5.3.3. Spain
- 5.3.4. France
- 5.3.5. Italy
- 5.3.6. Nordic Countries
- 5.3.7. Russia
- 5.3.8. Turkey
- 5.3.9. Rest of Europe
- 5.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6. Germany Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 6.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 6.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 6.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 6.2.1. Smart Grid
- 6.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 6.2.3. Other Applications
- 6.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7. United Kingdom Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 7.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 7.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 7.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 7.2.1. Smart Grid
- 7.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 7.2.3. Other Applications
- 7.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8. Spain Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 8.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 8.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 8.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 8.2.1. Smart Grid
- 8.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 8.2.3. Other Applications
- 8.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9. France Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 9.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 9.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 9.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 9.2.1. Smart Grid
- 9.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 9.2.3. Other Applications
- 9.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10. Italy Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 10.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 10.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 10.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 10.2.1. Smart Grid
- 10.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 10.2.3. Other Applications
- 10.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 11. Nordic Countries Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 11.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 11.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 11.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 11.2.1. Smart Grid
- 11.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 11.2.3. Other Applications
- 11.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 12. Russia Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 12.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 12.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 12.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 12.2.1. Smart Grid
- 12.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 12.2.3. Other Applications
- 12.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 13. Turkey Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 13.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 13.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 13.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 13.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 13.2.1. Smart Grid
- 13.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 13.2.3. Other Applications
- 13.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 14. Rest of Europe Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 14.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 14.1.1. Distribution Transformers
- 14.1.2. Power Transfomers
- 14.2. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Application
- 14.2.1. Smart Grid
- 14.2.2. Traction Locomotive
- 14.2.3. Other Applications
- 14.1. Market Analysis, Insights and Forecast - by Type
- 15. Germany Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 16. France Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 17. Italy Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 18. United Kingdom Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 19. Netherlands Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 20. Sweden Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 21. Rest of Europe Europe Smart Transformers Industry Analysis, Insights and Forecast, 2019-2031
- 22. Competitive Analysis
- 22.1. Market Share Analysis 2024
- 22.2. Company Profiles
- 22.2.1 Societa Elettromeccanica Arzignanese SpA
- 22.2.1.1. Overview
- 22.2.1.2. Products
- 22.2.1.3. SWOT Analysis
- 22.2.1.4. Recent Developments
- 22.2.1.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 22.2.2 Hitachi Energy Ltd
- 22.2.2.1. Overview
- 22.2.2.2. Products
- 22.2.2.3. SWOT Analysis
- 22.2.2.4. Recent Developments
- 22.2.2.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 22.2.3 Siemens AG
- 22.2.3.1. Overview
- 22.2.3.2. Products
- 22.2.3.3. SWOT Analysis
- 22.2.3.4. Recent Developments
- 22.2.3.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 22.2.4 Schneider Electric SE
- 22.2.4.1. Overview
- 22.2.4.2. Products
- 22.2.4.3. SWOT Analysis
- 22.2.4.4. Recent Developments
- 22.2.4.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 22.2.5 Eaton Corporation PLC
- 22.2.5.1. Overview
- 22.2.5.2. Products
- 22.2.5.3. SWOT Analysis
- 22.2.5.4. Recent Developments
- 22.2.5.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 22.2.6 GBE SpA
- 22.2.6.1. Overview
- 22.2.6.2. Products
- 22.2.6.3. SWOT Analysis
- 22.2.6.4. Recent Developments
- 22.2.6.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 22.2.7 General Electric Company
- 22.2.7.1. Overview
- 22.2.7.2. Products
- 22.2.7.3. SWOT Analysis
- 22.2.7.4. Recent Developments
- 22.2.7.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 22.2.8 Westrafo SRL
- 22.2.8.1. Overview
- 22.2.8.2. Products
- 22.2.8.3. SWOT Analysis
- 22.2.8.4. Recent Developments
- 22.2.8.5. Financials (Based on Availability)
- 22.2.1 Societa Elettromeccanica Arzignanese SpA
List of Figures
- Figure 1: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Breakdown (Million, %) by Product 2024 & 2032
- Figure 2: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Share (%) by Company 2024
List of Tables
- Table 1: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 2: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 3: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 4: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Region 2019 & 2032
- Table 5: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 6: Germany Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 7: France Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 8: Italy Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 9: United Kingdom Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 10: Netherlands Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 11: Sweden Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 12: Rest of Europe Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue (Million) Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 13: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 14: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 15: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 16: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 17: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 18: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 19: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 20: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 21: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 22: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 23: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 24: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 25: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 26: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 27: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 28: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 29: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 30: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 31: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 32: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 33: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 34: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 35: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 36: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
- Table 37: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Type 2019 & 2032
- Table 38: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Application 2019 & 2032
- Table 39: Europe Smart Transformers Industry Revenue Million Forecast, by Country 2019 & 2032
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of the Europe Smart Transformers Industry?
The projected CAGR is approximately 23.38%.
2. Which companies are prominent players in the Europe Smart Transformers Industry?
Key companies in the market include Societa Elettromeccanica Arzignanese SpA, Hitachi Energy Ltd, Siemens AG, Schneider Electric SE, Eaton Corporation PLC, GBE SpA, General Electric Company, Westrafo SRL.
3. What are the main segments of the Europe Smart Transformers Industry?
The market segments include Type, Application.
4. Can you provide details about the market size?
The market size is estimated to be USD 1.56 Million as of 2022.
5. What are some drivers contributing to market growth?
4.; Increasing Adoption of Smart Technology in Power Grid Infrastructure4.; Aging of Transmission and Distribution (T&D) Infrastructure.
6. What are the notable trends driving market growth?
Distribution Transformers to Dominate the Market.
7. Are there any restraints impacting market growth?
4.; Low Accessibility to Electricity in Underdeveloped Nations.
8. Can you provide examples of recent developments in the market?
March 2023: Ganz Transformers, the European technology provider for power grids, entered into a collaboration with Maschinenfabrik Reinhausen (MR) to manufacture digital transformers with the help of MR’s ISM digital platform for intelligent solutions.
9. What pricing options are available for accessing the report?
Pricing options include single-user, multi-user, and enterprise licenses priced at USD 4750, USD 5250, and USD 8750 respectively.
10. Is the market size provided in terms of value or volume?
The market size is provided in terms of value, measured in Million.
11. Are there any specific market keywords associated with the report?
Yes, the market keyword associated with the report is "Europe Smart Transformers Industry," which aids in identifying and referencing the specific market segment covered.
12. How do I determine which pricing option suits my needs best?
The pricing options vary based on user requirements and access needs. Individual users may opt for single-user licenses, while businesses requiring broader access may choose multi-user or enterprise licenses for cost-effective access to the report.
13. Are there any additional resources or data provided in the Europe Smart Transformers Industry report?
While the report offers comprehensive insights, it's advisable to review the specific contents or supplementary materials provided to ascertain if additional resources or data are available.
14. How can I stay updated on further developments or reports in the Europe Smart Transformers Industry?
To stay informed about further developments, trends, and reports in the Europe Smart Transformers Industry, consider subscribing to industry newsletters, following relevant companies and organizations, or regularly checking reputable industry news sources and publications.
Methodology
Step 1 - Identification of Relevant Samples Size from Population Database



Step 2 - Approaches for Defining Global Market Size (Value, Volume* & Price*)

Note*: In applicable scenarios
Step 3 - Data Sources
Primary Research
- Web Analytics
- Survey Reports
- Research Institute
- Latest Research Reports
- Opinion Leaders
Secondary Research
- Annual Reports
- White Paper
- Latest Press Release
- Industry Association
- Paid Database
- Investor Presentations

Step 4 - Data Triangulation
Involves using different sources of information in order to increase the validity of a study
These sources are likely to be stakeholders in a program - participants, other researchers, program staff, other community members, and so on.
Then we put all data in single framework & apply various statistical tools to find out the dynamic on the market.
During the analysis stage, feedback from the stakeholder groups would be compared to determine areas of agreement as well as areas of divergence