Hitachi Energy e SP Energy Networks (SPEN) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to deploy SF6-free switchgear across critical UK infrastructure, supporting Scotland’s net-zero target.
The partnership will see Hitachi Energy provide equipment from its EconiQ® portfolio, replacing systems that rely on sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) — “the world’s most potent greenhouse gas, which is 24,300 times more climate-hostile than CO2 and remains in the atmosphere for over a thousand years.”
The first installations of EconiQ 420 kV GIS will take place at two new SPEN substations. According to the companies, this move will eliminate emissions equivalent to those from “around 27,600 passenger vehicles” each year.
Andre Gargi, Global Head of Marketing & Sales for High Voltage Products at Hitachi Energy, stated: “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.”
Pearse Murray, transmission guide Director for SP Energy Networks, added:“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.”
The agreement builds on a long-standing relationship between the two companies and aligns with UK energy regulator Ofgem’s commitments to modernise the grid guide.