Hitachi, Ltd. has received an order for five units of Hitachi Energy’s SF₆-free EconiQ™ 300-kilovolt (kV) circuit-breakers from Chubu Electric Power Grid. This project marks Japan's first installation of SF₆-free circuit-breakers at voltages of 275 kV and above, advancing efforts to create sustainable power grids.

SF₆, a widely used insulating gas with a global warming potential 24,300 times greater than CO₂, poses significant environmental risks. By replacing SF₆ with an eco-efficient alternative, EconiQ circuit-breakers reduce CO₂-equivalent emissions by 99.3%. This supports Chubu Electric Power Grid's goal to achieve zero emissions by 2050.

“Japan's EconiQ journey starts now! We proudly support Chubu Electric Power Co., Inc. in leading the charge toward a sustainable grid with our eco-efficient switchgear. SF₆-free, compact, and with the lowest carbon footprint – high-voltage innovation at its best,” said Markus Heimbach, Executive Vice President and Managing Director of High Voltage Products at Hitachi Energy.

In 2022, Chubu Electric Power Grid announced plans to adopt SF₆-free breakers up to 77 kV. Today, it takes a progressive step forward by applying this eco-efficient technology to 275 kV and above, reflecting Japan's rising energy demand and the necessity for low-carbon solutions.

Launched in 2021, Hitachi Energy’s EconiQ high-voltage portfolio addresses this challenge by delivering sustainable and reliable solutions for grid voltages up to 550 kV.

Source: hitachienergy.com