Building more sustainable future using SF₆-free MV switchgear technology
Drankenstein Municipality is accelerating sustainability efforts using SF6-free MV switchgear. Its powerful digital capabilities improve power reliability by reinforcing the South African utility’s distribution network.
An ingenious combination of pure air and vacuum switching technology, the new SF₆-free AirSeT MV switchgear makes buildings and electrical networks more sustainable and improves their efficiency. For more reliable and safer operations.
Drakenstein Municipality: Customer Story Key Figures
Reduce carbon footprint and eliminate SF6 from MV switchgear
Optimise maintenance using connected digital tools
Improve power reliability and service continuity
Green MV switchgear is central to Drakenstein Municipality’s sustainability initiatives
Sustainability trailblazer Drakenstein Municipality has ambitious goals for building a green future. The electric distribution utility is adopting SF6-free MV switchgear, which eliminates greenhouse gas use in the ring main unit (RMU) and improves service continuity. This project sets a new benchmark for developing a more reliable and sustainable power grid.
Unleashing the potential of innovative solutions
This innovative gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) uses pure air insulation and vacuum interruption, eliminating the need for SF6 in MV switchgear. Its digital features enhance grid reliability, offering increased network visibility and enhanced insight through edge control SCADA.
Enhancing lifespan and operational efficiency
The innovative design extends the switchgear's lifespan from 30 to 40 years, aligning with the municipality's circular economy objectives. Moreover, RM AirSeT's straightforward installation process, akin to traditional switchgear, ensures ease of adoption and seamless operations.
Webinar: Sustainable innovations for Grids of the Future
Grids of the Future require sustainable innovations. Watch our experts discuss the challenges and solutions for electric distribution utilities in this on-demand webinar.
Leon Laing, Manager: Planning and Customer Services at Drakenstein Municipality
“We have achieved measurable benefits from Schneider Electric SF6-free technology. It has no impact on the environment, eliminates the need to recycle harmful gases, and offers safer operation of equipment by staff. In addition, it contributes towards a greener footprint for our society.”
E-book: Decarbonise electrical grids with pure air and digital MV switchgear
Discover how SF₆-free MV switchgear and digital technologies are combined to empower decarbonisation and efficiency across grids, buildings, and industrial operations.