Objectives: What is behind the SF6-free MV project?
SF6 is the most potent greenhouse gas in terms of GWP (Global Warming Potential). The gas was chosen to be used in gas MV electrical equipment in the 60s for its tremendous qualities, but each kilogram of SF6 constitutes the equivalent of 24,300 ton of CO₂ representing a well identified environmental impact. So far, each step towards a low carbon policy was blocked by lack of alternative MV technologies. SF6 can be replaced by an effective, robust, and affordable solution in MV applications. Intensive R&D work has now produced mature solutions. After several years of extensive research and multiple alternatives assessments, Schneider Electric proposes the combination of pure air and vacuum technology in an innovative switching device.
The pilot project, with prototypes running on customers sites in real conditions, demonstrated to all stakeholders and target audiences that these alternatives are safe and reliable in various MV applications. The total budget dedicated to this initiative was 5.9 M€ with EU financial contribution of 3.2 M€ (55%).
Schneider Electric is working with multiple customers across in the EU zone to deploy SF6-free medium-voltage switchgear pilot installations. These range from SF6-free secondary AIS and GIS to primary distribution equipment.
The initial feedback and results from customers indicate high level of satisfaction with the SF6-free MV solution. The transparency of the green design coupled with the uncompromised performance and reliability answer their need to curb their environmental footprint while boosting operational uptime.
Items found: 11

19-7-2022
Energy Mastering Awards 2022: Gold for SM AirSeT
Energy Mastering Awards 2022: Gold for SM AirSeTSchneider Electric receives Energy Efficient Solution of the Year recognition. In the category ‘Energy Efficient & Saving Products, Technologies, and Services’ Schneider Electric won GOLD award for green and digital AirSeT medium voltage switchgear.

15-10-2020
ICEF
ICEFSchneider Electric received recognition for its new SM AirSeT medium-voltage switchgear using pure air instead of the industry-standard SF6 greenhouse gas commonly used for grid and industrial electrical installations

31-5-2022
Hannover Fair 2022: New AirSeT range
Hannover Fair 2022: New AirSeT rangeThe new GM AirSeT is the green and digital primary MV GIS for electrical networks and demanding applications in industrial buildings and critical infrastructure.

24-2-2022
Enedis launches RM AirSeT for new-generation substations
Enedis launches RM AirSeT for new-generation substationsThe project involves RM AirSeT, SF6-free RMU, a new generation of MV/LV substation equipment as an alternative to the use of SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) gas.

5-11-2021
Firm commitment to innovate for a net-zero future free of fluorinated gases
Firm commitment to innovate for a net-zero future free of fluorinated gasesSchneider Electric, along with eight other leading electrical transmission and distribution (T&D) equipment manufacturers, commit to innovate beyond the use of F-gases.

12-4-2021
Green and digital: pure-air SM AirSeT available NOW
Green and digital: pure-air SM AirSeT available NOWAward-winning green and digital SF6-free SM AirSeT switchgear makes commercial debut. New medium-voltage range uses pure air and vacuum interruption technology, completely avoiding greenhouse gases while delivering uncompromised benefits of the former SF6 technology.

15-1-2021
enerTIC Awards: SF6-free project with E.ON
enerTIC Awards: SF6-free project with E.ONThe objective of SF6-free project with E.ON was to create a smarter and more sustainable energy distribution network without greenhouse gases. This innovation has been awarded in the Smart Grid category of enerTIC Awards.

15-7-2020
Breakthrough SF6-free Technology Awarded by Hannover Messe
Breakthrough SF6-free Technology Awarded by Hannover MesseSchneider Electric’s new SM AirSeT has won Hannover Messe’s Industrial Energy Efficiency Award. The promising medium voltage innovation is expected to usher in a transition to green switching technologies.

12-11-2019
EEC Engie opts for SF6-free
EEC Engie opts for SF6-freeEEC Engie picks a green solution to help power its electrical network in the tropical island.

12-11-2019
GreenAlp becomes SF6-free for future
GreenAlp becomes SF6-free for futureGreenAlp becomes the first French distribution network operator to pilot the new SF6-free technology, powered by air and digital.

12-11-2019
SF6-free MV makes a point
SF6-free MV makes a pointOur SF6-free medium-voltage switchgear is to demonstrate the robustness and technical feasibility of the new technology under EU’s LIFE Program, a funding instrument for the environment and climate action.

SM AirSeT is a green range of secondary distribution modular air-insulated switchgear up to 24kV for the commercial and industrial building sector and utilities.
New SF6-free Medium Voltage Switchgear Technology
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