Products & Solutions Powertage 2024

Counteracting climate change with SF6-free medium-voltage switchgear

Eaton's SF₆-free technology ensures minimal environmental impact and low total cost of ownership. The vacuum-based switching technology in combination with natural air insulation is ideally suited for use in supply networks in the energy sector and industry.

Heralding a paradigm shift with the EU's new F-Gas Regulation?

The European Union's new F-Gas Regulation aims to reduce the use of fluorinated greenhouse gases, as they make a significant contribution to climate change. These gases have a very high global warming potential and contribute significantly to global warming. 

The updated regulations include a ban on the use of sulphur hexafluoride (SF₆) in medium-voltage switchgear, starting with a gradual phase-out from 2026.

Does Switzerland have to follow suit?

As Switzerland is not a member of the European Union, there is no obligation to implement EU regulations. However, it has adopted similar regulations in the area of climate protection and the reduction of greenhouse gases, which are based on international standards. It would make sense for Switzerland, as a member of the European Economic Area (EEA), to align its national regulations with EU legislation in order to facilitate trade and cooperation with the EU and also take measures to implement the F-Gas Regulation and reduce emissions of these harmful gases.

SF₆-free medium-voltage switchgear from Eaton

Eaton is a pioneer in the field of SF₆-free medium-voltage switchgear. The vacuum-based switching technology in combination with natural air insulation is ideally suited for use in supply networks in the energy sector and industry. The SF₆-free technology ensures minimal environmental impact, low inspection and maintenance work and low total cost of ownership.

Discover our SF₆-free switchgear and make the switch now!

The Xiria product family

Xiria is Eaton's SF₆-free medium-voltage switchgear for local network substations and secondary medium-voltage applications up to 24 kV. The highly compact switchgear panels are used by grid operators, industry, commercial buildings and operators of decentralized renewable energy generation plants.

Key features:

  • Safe to use
  • Flexibly configurable
  • Low total cost of ownership (TCO)
  • High environmental compatibility

Find out more about our SF₆-free medium-voltage switchgear Xiria.

How to successfully switch to SF₆-free switchgear

SF₆ (sulphur hexafluoride) is the most potent of the seven greenhouse gases and is often used as an insulating and switching medium in switchgear due to its chemical and electrical properties. As it is not naturally absorbed or degraded, SF₆ can remain active in the atmosphere for up to 3200 years and cause extreme environmental damage. For this reason, it is time to switch to environmentally friendly alternatives.

In our blog, you will find detailed information on the EU's new F-Gas Regulation and its impact on electricity supply companies. We provide important information for system operators and discuss which steps are necessary for a successful switchover to SF₆-free switchgear.