New study on the use of the greenhouse gas sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) in the energy sector started
Sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) plays an important role as an insulating gas in electrical switchgear at various voltage levels when interrupting and diverting current flows. At the same time, it is one of the most effective greenhouse gases with a very long lifetime and, although the concentration of SF6 in the atmosphere is currently still very low, it accumulates steadily over the years. The Fraunhofer Institute for Energy Economics and Energy System Technology IEE in Kassel and the Grenoble Ecole de Management (GEM) are performing a research study to investigate the environmental and socio-economic impact of the usage of the gas sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) in power distribution grids.
The study will analyze the use of the potent greenhouse gas SF6 and of F-gas free alternatives in medium voltage grids. The study is intended to support the COP 21 Paris Agreement, and industry’s sustainability commitments towards the nature and the planet. The study focuses on medium voltage (MV) switchgear of electricity grids in the European Union.
Power grid stakeholders who have strong interest in MV power equipment and sustainability are invited to join this research study. Initial members are Siemens and Schneider Electric.
Study participants might contribute with their specific knowledge and will have preferential access to the results. They can choose from three membership options with different rights and financial contributions: Full Members, Participating Members and Study Supporters. Applications for membership are open until 31 May 2019.
The research started in March 2019. The definition phase will close mid-June. Results will be available early 2020. The final results will be presented in a publicly available white paper.
Wissenschaftlicher Ansprechpartner:
Dipl.-Ing. Wolfram Heckmann
wolfram.heckmann@iee.fraunhofer.de
Phone +49 561 7294-126
Fraunhofer IEE
Königstor 59
34119 Kassel, Germany
Weitere Informationen:
http://s.fhg.de/zxk