– By Deepak Sharma
In today’s global context, the imperative to decarbonize and address climate change repercussions is more pressing than ever. The electrical industry is at a critical point due to increasing energy demand, aging infrastructure, and environmental worries. Taking decisive actions to overcome immediate challenges and progress towards sustainability is paramount. With the growing adoption of renewable energy sources and electrification, the demand for new medium voltage (MV) equipment is on the rise. It’s vital to ensure that green technologies and grid expansion are supported by energy-efficient equipment, paving the way for a resilient future for both the industry, our country and the planet.
As we know , the most common use of SF6 gas is as an insulating and arc quenching gas in medium and high voltage circuit breakers and electrical equipment such as gas-insulated switchgear. The chemical properties of SF6 gas of being inert, non-toxic, and thermally stable makes it ideal for this application. SF6 gas emissions are a very valid concern in the electrical industry and its ever more important now for our initiatives to align with commitments made at COP 28, contributing to sustainable practices. The transition from SF6 technology to Pure Air is a significant and timely step in the electrical industry’s sustainability journey. Embracing SF6-free solutions like switchgear can substantially reduce carbon emissions, marking a forward-thinking and responsible approach to energy management.
The Imperative of Phasing Out SF6: A Call for Change
A critical area demanding our immediate attention is the phased removal of SF6, a potent greenhouse gas commonly used in electrical equipment. Industry reports reveal the prevalence of SF6-based switchgear in medium voltage equipment, posing substantial climate risk. Just for context, in the European Union alone, there are approximately 15 million medium voltage switchgear units in operation, out of which a significant quantum (10 million) rely on SF6 which leads to high carbon emissions.
The urgency to transition away from SF6 gas cannot be overstated. Its ramifications reach beyond its operational use, as potential emissions during the end-of-life process of switchgear units worsen its climate impact. This underscores the urgent need for proactive measures and a strategic transition to sustainable alternatives to alleviate its environmental footprint.
Indeed, the European Union has introduced a new F-gas Regulation that prohibits SF6 use in new MV switchgear installations from 1st January 2026.
Synergy of SF6-Free and Digital Technologies
The convergence of SF6-free equipment and cutting-edge digital technologies presents a compelling pathway towards achieving energy efficiency and accelerated decarbonization in power generation, distribution, and consumption. Harnessing digital devices and the invaluable data they capture opens the door to a myriad of technical, operational, and environmental benefits.
Integrating SF6-free and digital technologies forms a powerful alliance towards balancing the decarbonization challenges posed by non-renewables, inefficiencies in energy management , and possible greenhouse gas emissions. This not only paves the way for a sustainable and cleaner energy future but also aligns with the latest industry trends.
Charting a Sustainable Path Forward
Moving towards an SF6-free future is not merely an idea but a reality in today’s time. As we approach this transformative path, recent industry insights and analysis point to a promising direction. Yet, bringing this vision to life relies on strong policy measures and collaborative societal engagement.
The global push for sustainability is driving industries to transition away from sulphur hexafluoride (SF6). Recognizing the significance of policy-driven initiatives, companies are accelerating efforts to adopt eco-friendly alternatives. Amidst this transition, supporting customers is paramount. Guiding them through the shift while leveraging digital advancements not only enhances efficiency but also underscores our collective commitment to a greener future.
A Call for Collaborative Action
The consolidation of SF6-free pure air technology and digital solutions underpins a formidable force in our pursuit of decarbonization and efficiency. Together, they lay the groundwork for a smarter, cleaner, and more sustainable electricity grid—one that is ready to meet the challenges of the future.
Let us focus our efforts on building a resilient energy landscape that not only meets the needs of today’s generations but also safeguards the prosperity of generations to come. It’s important to remember that in the battle against climate change, victory hinges on our comprehensive approach to addressing each challenge, crafting effective solutions, and accelerating our innovation efforts to introduce sustainable alternatives. This concerted endeavour is pivotal in driving meaningful change. Amidst the urgent call to combat climate change, let’s unite in re-shaping our energy landscape by using the right technologies that balance current demands with future environmental preservation efforts. Each challenge presents an opportunity for collective action, driving us to discover innovative and sustainable solutions at an accelerated pace. This collaborative commitment is not just a necessity but a moral imperative that is essential for ushering in a truly transformative era. Together, let’s embrace these challenges with determination, ingenuity, and a shared vision for building a more sustainable and electric India and world for all.
(Deepak Sharma, Zone President- Greater India and MD & CEO, Schneider Electric.)
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