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%).

  • Energy Mastering Awards 2022: Gold for SM AirSeT

    Energy Mastering Awards 2022: Gold for SM AirSeT
    Schneider 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.
  • ICEF

    ICEF
    Schneider 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
  • Hannover Fair 2022: New AirSeT range

    Hannover Fair 2022: New AirSeT range
    The new GM AirSeT is the green and digital primary MV GIS for electrical networks and demanding applications in industrial buildings and critical infrastructure.
  • Enedis launches RM AirSeT for new-generation substations

    Enedis launches RM AirSeT for new-generation substations
    The 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.
  • 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 gases
    Schneider Electric, along with eight other leading electrical transmission and distribution (T&D) equipment manufacturers, commit to innovate beyond the use of F-gases.
  • Green and digital: pure-air SM AirSeT available NOW

    Green and digital: pure-air SM AirSeT available NOW
    Award-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.
  • enerTIC Awards: SF6-free project with E.ON

    enerTIC Awards: SF6-free project with E.ON
    The 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.
  • Breakthrough SF6-free Technology Awarded by Hannover Messe

    Breakthrough SF6-free Technology Awarded by Hannover Messe
    Schneider 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.
  • EEC Engie opts for SF6-free

    EEC Engie opts for SF6-free
    EEC Engie picks a green solution to help power its electrical network in the tropical island.
  • GreenAlp becomes SF6-free for future

    GreenAlp becomes SF6-free for future
    GreenAlp becomes the first French distribution network operator to pilot the new SF6-free technology, powered by air and digital.
  • SF6-free MV makes a point

    SF6-free MV makes a point
    Our 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.
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