Siemens, Mitsubishi Ink MoU to Develop Zero GWP Solutions for Power Transmission Industry

Siemens Energy and Mitsubishi Electric had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to conduct a feasibility study on the joint development of high-voltage switching solutions with zero global-warming potential (GWP) that substitute greenhouse gases with clean air for insulation.

Through this partnership, both the companies will research methods for scaling up the application of clean air insulation technology to higher voltages. They’ll start with a 245-kV dead-tank circuit breaker that will speed up the availability of climate-neutral high-voltage switching solutions for customers around the globe.

Moreover, the two entities will continue to manufacture, sell, and service switchgear solutions independently.

Both companies have been working on the development of SF6-free gas-insulated switching solutions that replace the greenhouse gas with clean air, a pure mixture of nitrogen and oxygen, in order to contribute to global carbon neutrality goals. To date, clean air insulation is the only alternative to greenhouse gases and therefore poses zero health and safety risks. In conjunction with vacuum interrupters, a higher performance for switching applications is ensured, even compared with all known SF6 circuit breakers.

Siemens Energy’s Blue Portfolio offers future-proof and environmentally friendly solutions for high-voltage power transmission. It comprises F-gas-free gas-insulated switchgear, circuit breakers, and instrument transformers. It’s Blue products lie outside the scope of any conceivable F-gas regulation.

Mitsubishi Electric provides a variety of high- and medium-voltage products to ensure the safe and reliable operation of modern power networks. With its vacuum-interruption and dry-air insulation technology, the company is contributing to society by providing (SF6-free) and zero CO2 equivalent emission, energy-efficient, and low lifecycle-cost solutions.

The company has manufactured high-quality vacuum tubes and products since 1965 and started providing its 72.5-kV vacuum interrupter in 2002. It is extending its vast experience with vacuum and dry-air technology to create a new lineup of higher-voltage circuit breaker and switchgear products.