SP Energy Networks taps Hitachi Energy for SF6-free switchgear
Image courtesy SP Energy Networks
Hitachi Energy and SP Energy Networks (SPEN) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for switchgear free of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6).
Under the agreement, the UK distribution and transmission network operator will receive the switchgear from Hitachi Energy’s EconiQ portfolio.
Unlike traditional equipment, the EconiQ equipment does not use SF6, the world’s most potent greenhouse gas, which is widely used in critical power grid infrastructure.
The first installations of the EconiQ 420kV GIS will take place in two new planned substations on SPEN’s network. These will effectively remove the equivalent of the CO2 emissions produced from around 27,600 passenger vehicles from the road in a year.
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The agreement builds on a long-term collaboration between the two companies to facilitate the connection of renewable energy for use by electricity consumers across the country.
Commenting in a release was Andre Gargi, global head of Marketing & Sales for the Business Unit High Voltage Products in Hitachi Energy: “This agreement will help power Scotland’s future and contribute to its net-zero ambitions, and we could not be happier to be the ones enabling it to meet its targets with our SF6-free EconiQ switchgear.
“We are at a critical point in the energy transition journey and decarbonising the transmission network is a priority: this means modernising the country’s energy infrastructure to stimulate economic growth, reducing carbon emissions, and contributing to a cleaner, more resilient energy system for future generations.”
Said Pearse Murray, transmission director for SP Energy Networks: “Decarbonising the grid as we build the transmission network needed for the energy system of the future is a vital step on the journey to net zero and it’s great to have Hitachi on board as a trusted partner.
“This agreement marks a milestone moment for SP Energy Networks as we continue to invest to upgrade our network while reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. I have no doubt this partnership will help us deliver a cleaner, greener and better future, quicker.”
SP Energy Networks oversees electricity flows to homes and businesses throughout Central and Southern Scotland, North Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire and North Shropshire. The company aims to help Scotland achieve net zero by 2045.
