Ausgrid & Schneider Electric unveil SF6-free switchgear

Ausgrid, the largest distributor of electricity on Australia's east coast, has partnered with Schneider Electric to enhance the sustainability of its grid operations.

In a significant move towards achieving its environmental objectives, this collaboration introduces SF6-free Distribution Switchgear into the Ausgrid Distribution Network. The initiative is a part of Ausgrid's broader sustainability strategy.

James Hunt, Vice President for Power Systems at Schneider Electric, said, "Since the 1980s, Ring Main Units (RMUs) have used SF6 as the insulation medium due to its superior dielectric properties. Unfortunately, SF6 gas is 23,500 times more potent than CO2, posing a substantial environmental risk if leaked. Until now, no viable alternative existed. Our Pure Air SF6-free switchgear changes that, demonstrating our ongoing commitment to providing sustainable solutions for our partners."

Schneider Electric has been engaged by Ausgrid to develop an SF6-free kiosk pad substation, designed with internal arc containment. This safety feature ensures any high-voltage arcs or faults are confined within the kiosk, protecting both operators and the public, while requiring no alterations to Ausgrid's existing infrastructure.

James added, "This is one of the first internally arc-rated SF6-free kiosk designs on the market, showcasing our capability to create a greener network across Australia. This solution will effectively prevent 35,000 kg of CO2-eq from entering Ausgrid's network, while maintaining the same high levels of safety and operation."

Brett Hawkeswood, Ausgrid's Head of Design & Engineering Services, said, "I am really delighted that we have had this opportunity to team with Schneider on our journey towards decarbonisation. Not only are we reducing our reliance on SF6 gas, we are also strengthening important safety features on the network."

The new substation also incorporates automation features using Schneider's T300 technology, which enables remote switching commands from the control room. This technology integrates with Ausgrid's Advanced Distribution Management System (ADMS) provided by Schneider Electric, which supports optimal grid reliability.

Schneider is a global industrial technology company bringing expertise in electrification, automation and digitisation to smart industries, resilient infrastructure, future-proof data centres, intelligent buildings, and intuitive homes. Anchored by deep domain expertise, the company provides integrated end-to-end lifecycle AI enabled Industrial IoT solutions with connected products, automation, software and services, delivering digital twins to enable profitable growth for customers.

Ausgrid is the largest distributor of electricity on Australia's east coast, providing power to 1.8 million customers and powering 60% of NSW's GDP. Ausgrid's network is made up of substations, powerlines, underground cables and power poles, spanning 22,275 square kilometres throughout Sydney, the Central Coast and the Hunter Valley.