Hitachi Energy is committed to transforming Japan’s energy landscape by providing Chubu Electric Power Grid with innovative circuit breakers without SF6. These innovative devices are a decisive step towards greener power grids, reducing CO2 equivalent emissions from insulating gases by 99.3%. With this first installation of SF6-free high-voltage circuit breakers in Japan, the country’s energy story is being written on an unprecedented ecological horizon, strengthening a clear commitment to decarbonization by 2050. This project also highlights the growing need for sustainable solutions in the face of increasing energy demand, while addressing the pressing challenge of climate change.
Hitachi Energy has received an order for five units of EconiQ SF6-free circuit breakers rated at 300 kilovolts (kV) from Chubu Electric Power Grid.
This is the first time in Japan that SF6-free circuit breakers will be installed at voltages of 275 kV and above. This project represents an important step towards achieving a sustainable power grid in Japan, in line with Chubu Electric Power Grid’s ambition to reduce its emissions to zero by 2050. The SF6-free EconiQ circuit breakers allow for a reduction of CO2 equivalent emissions by up to 99.3%.
The SF6 gas, while excellent for insulation and switching, has a global warming potential 24,300 times greater than CO2 and can persist in the atmosphere for over 1,000 years if it leaks from equipment. With the growing demand for electricity in Japan due to electrification and the expansion of data centers, it becomes crucial to strengthen power grids while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
By launching the EconiQ range of high-voltage products in 2021, Hitachi Energy responded to the urgent demand for SF6-free equipment, thus eliminating greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining the same performance, safety, and reliability as traditional equipment. Chubu Electric Power Grid has now decided to accelerate its decarbonization initiatives by adopting SF6-free circuit breakers for voltages of 275 kV and above.
Hitachi Energy and the Innovation of SF6-free Circuit Breakers
Hitachi Energy is positioning itself as a pioneer with its new SF6-free circuit breakers, thereby meeting the sustainability aspirations of many energy stakeholders. For the first time in Japan, Chubu Electric Power Grid is integrating these pioneering solutions, marking a decisive turning point towards the reduction of global emissions. These EconiQ circuit breakers replace the SF6 gas, which was previously universally used for its insulating qualities, with an eco-friendly alternative. This transition perfectly aligns with a global desire to minimize environmental impact.
This Japanese initiative marks a significant step towards a greener future as energy sector players seek to adapt their technologies to climate challenges. Faced with a constantly increasing electricity consumption, strengthening the power grid while reducing emissions becomes crucial. Investments in technologies like Hitachi Energy’s EconiQ do not only meet an immediate need, but also shape the energy landscape of tomorrow. Chubu Electric, with this approach, sets an example for other organizations wishing to actively engage in the protection of our planet.
Impact of Phasing Out SF6 Gas
The SF6 gas, while efficient, has a climate change potential 24,300 times greater than CO2. Its presence in the atmosphere can persist for more than 1,000 years, making its substitution essential for a sustainable future. By developing the EconiQ circuit breakers, Hitachi Energy addresses two major challenges: maintaining equipment performance while reducing carbon footprint. This technical progress actively contributes to the design of environmentally responsible power grids. As governments worldwide work towards phasing out SF6, Hitachi Energy focuses on innovation and efficiency.
Chubu Electric Power Grid: Towards a Cleaner Network
Chubu Electric Power Grid embodies a modern vision of the energy industry by announcing a policy to replace circuit breakers up to 275 kV with SF6-free models from Hitachi Energy. In collaboration with the latter, the company clearly displays its ambition: to decarbonize its operations and achieve a more sustainable power grid by 2050. The launch of the EconiQ products in 2021 offers hope for a future without SF6. By adopting these cutting-edge technologies, Chubu Electric Power Grid contributes to the overall reduction of emissions, aligning its actions with current environmental imperatives.
