Hitachi, Ltd. has announced that it has received an order from Chubu Electric Power Grid for its EconiQ 550 kilovolt (kV) sulfur hexafluoride (SF6)-free gas-insulated switchgear (GIS). This marks the world's first project involving 550 kV GIS that is entirely SF6-free, a significant step towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Japan's power grid.
The EconiQ 550-kV GIS technology is designed to reduce CO2-equivalent emissions from the insulating gas by 99% compared to traditional SF6-insulated equipment. This advancement supports Chubu Electric Power Grid's efforts to create a more sustainable transmission network amid rising electricity demand driven by increased electrification and the expansion of data centers.
SF6 gas has been a staple in power grids due to its superior insulation and switching capabilities. However, it poses a significant environmental challenge as it has a global warming potential 24,300 times greater than CO2 and can persist in the atmosphere for over 1,000 years. Although Japan currently lacks regulations on phasing out SF6 equipment, many governments globally are moving towards eliminating its use to combat climate change.
In 2024, Chubu Electric Power Grid introduced a policy to adopt SF6-free equipment across various voltage classes, including GIS for voltages up to 77 kV and circuit breakers rated at 275 kV and above. Following this policy and aiming to accelerate its carbon neutrality goals, the company has now opted for SF6-free equipment for its 550 kV GIS, which will be integrated into its main transmission network.
Hitachi Energy, which launched its EconiQ high-voltage portfolio in 2021, aims to aid the industry's transition to SF6-free technologies. The EconiQ products provide an eco-efficient alternative to SF6 gas, maintaining the performance, size, safety, and reliability of conventional equipment while eliminating greenhouse gas emissions.
This strategic move by Chubu Electric Power Grid and Hitachi underscores the growing demand for environmentally friendly solutions in the energy sector, highlighting the balance between increasing electricity demand and the need to decarbonize power systems.