Posted to News on 30th Jun 2020, 11:46
Schneider Electric switchgear up for an award
Schneider Electric's new SF6-free switchgear technology (using pure air) has been nominated for a HERMES Award. The new medium voltage switchgear, which uses a combination of pure air and vacuum interruption instead of the industry-standard SF6 greenhouse gas, is among three contenders for this year's coveted recognition. Additionally, the new switchgear technology is among 15 finalists for the Industrial Energy Efficiency Award.
The HERMES Award, an international technology prize, honours "Outstanding products and innovative solutions". The Industrial Energy Efficiency Award (IEEA) recognises exceptional energy efficiency made possible by manufacturers and utilities. Both are conferred annually by Deutsche Messe during the world's largest industrial fair, Hannover Messe. Frederic Godemel, Executive Vice - President Power Systems at Schneider Electric says: "The industrial and energy worlds are clearly focused on energy decarbonisation and efficiency, and I'm honoured to see Schneider Electric in the spotlight. We know that the future is green and digital, and it's a pleasure to receive this confirmation that we are leading the way".
The switchgear nominated for the awards uses the company's new shunt vacuum interruption (SVI) technology combined with pure air insulation, which enables the avoidance of SF6 whilst maintaining the advantages of a compact physical footprint and cost-efficiency together with the operating mode of traditional SF6-based equipment. Schneider Electric has reported successful pilot projects of the new SF6-free medium voltage range at numerous electric utilities, including E.ON in Sweden, EEC Engie in New Caledonia, and GreenAlp in France.
The winner of the HERMES Award and the IEEA will be announced on July 14th during the HANNOVER MESSE Digital Days, in lieu of an announcement at the cancelled Hannover Messe event. Go to www.se.com/uk for further information.
