Decarbonization of Power Systems - Green Equipments (SF₆ Free)

POWERGRID is introducing an ecosystem of SF6-free equipment(s) in the grid. As the world shifts towards sustainable energy future, so must power systems. Such SF6-free equipment have resulted in reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Minimizing Environmental Impact.

Goals:

To reduce toxicity and limit global warming, by replacing SF6 switchgears with environmental sustainable switchgears. With rapid renewable energy integration, switchgears need to be environmental friendly. The decarbonization of the electric grid will be a great challenge in following decades. The first of its kind, green initiative by POWERGRID related to decarbonization of power system is being implemented in a phased manner. Such ecosystem of

SF6-free equipment(s) will help us comply to ESG compliances.

Results:

POWERGRID has around 11,000 nos. of Circuit Breakers (CBs) and 68 nos. Gas Insulated

Substations (GIS) handling around 3.4 million Kgs of SF6. In FY 25, POWERGRID achieved significant improvement in containing SF6 leakage; reducing it by 41.87%[2] and consequently

Scope-1 emissions by 32.25 % [2] despite adding 4 new substations. These results were driven by stringent inventory management of SF6, effective leak detection and mitigation strategies.

Leakage of SF6 gas at our establishments forms the bulk of our Scope-I emissions standing at around 84% in FY 2024-25. Considering its significant contribution to company’s emission profile, a focussed program was initiated, sensitizing the substation staff members about the importance of preventing SF6 leakage and its direct relation with Climate Change, dedicated training programs on technical knowledge & best practices to be employed during operation & maintenance. The results of these concerted actions are extremely encouraging. SF6 leakage which was 0.15% in FY 2021-22 has reduced to 0.04% in FY 2024-25. In absolute terms, this translates to reduction of SF6 leakage from 4409 Kg to 1423 Kg which amounts to reduction of around 67.73% (refer Figure 1 below). Approach included firstly identifying faulty equipment/ high leakage substations, thereafter rigorous control on inventory of SF6 gas and comprehensive training for personnel on its safe handling, leak detection, and environmental implications was done. We have installed highly sensitive SF6 leakage detectors across our major equipment, complemented by an alarm system to promptly flag potential leaks.

POWERGRID has also taken the initiative of regeneration of spoiled SF6 gas, which otherwise may go waste. This initiative helped to reduce inventory requirement of this highly potent

Greenhouse gas. SF6 Leakage Trend (Kg) 5000 4409 4423 4000 3000 2448 2000 1423 1000 0

FY 2021-22 FY 2022-23 FY 2023-24 FY 2024-25 Figure 1 - SF6 leakage in POWERGRID (India)