Northern Powergrid ditches SF6 gas in switchgear pilot
UK: Northern Powergrid has set a goal of decarbonising its network by 2040, with the distribution network operator now trialling new technologies to help it achieve that goal.
Image source: Electrical Review
UK: Northern Powergrid has set a goal of decarbonising its network by 2040, with the distribution network operator now trialling new technologies to help it achieve that goal.
One such technology that the DNO is beginning to roll-out as part of a pilot program, is ABB’s SafePlus Medium Voltage switchgear, which claims to be more eco-efficient as it replaces harmful SF6 with alternative insulation gases. Those gases are AirPlus, a technology developed by ABB, and dry air, both of which claim to have almost zero global warming impact.
Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) is a potent greenhouse gas with an atmospheric lifetime of 3,200 years. Reducing SF6 leaks across Northern Powergrid’s electrical distribution network of over 63,000 substations and 96,000 km (60,000 mi) of overhead power lines and underground cables, is central to the network operator’s commitment to achieve net zero within the next 20 years.
“Decarbonisation is the biggest and most important challenge that our planet faces. Until recently, there have been limited viable alternatives to SF6. This pilot underlines our commitment to exceeding business plan targets, embracing the latest innovations, and lowering emissions. Using new solutions like ABB’s eco-efficient switchgear represents a significant milestone in our drive towards decarbonisation. We have already reduced SF6 leaks by 23%, but still want to drive an extra 15% by 2028. Switching to ABB’s comprehensive range of eco-efficient switchgear will help us to push ahead with these ambitious carbon commitments,” noted Joseph Helm, Policy and Standards Manager at Northern Powergrid.
Source: Electrical Review