What type of transformer provides voltage regulation in power systems?

The type of transformer that provides voltage regulation in power systems is the automatic voltage regulation transformer. This transformer is specifically designed to maintain a stable output voltage level regardless of variations in load or input voltage. It typically incorporates mechanisms that adjust the turns ratio in response to changes in the system, ensuring that the voltage supplied remains within predetermined limits. This capability is crucial in power distribution systems where voltage levels must be regulated to ensure efficient operation of electrical equipment and to avoid damage caused by overvoltage or undervoltage conditions.

In contrast, instrument transformers are used primarily for measurement and protection, while step-up and step-down transformers are used to increase or decrease voltage levels, respectively, but do not inherently provide voltage regulation on their own.