Summary

SF6 is currently the primary gas used for arc-quenching and insulation in transmission systems.

However, it is also the most powerful greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential 24,300 times greater than CO2 and can linger in the atmosphere for over a millennium, which still impacts global warming. To support net-zero goals, the industry is moving towards phasing out

SF6 as the greenhouse gas in both distribution and transmission.

The size of SF6-free GIS is compact which offers the option to be used now more and more also in mobile substations, that provide temporary power solutions in various situations. They can be quickly deployed to restore power during emergencies, manage peak loads, and support maintenance activities without interrupting service. Additionally, they supply power to construction sites or new developments lacking permanent infrastructure and are used for testing new equipment before installation. Overall, mobile substations enhance the flexibility and reliability of electrical power systems.

This article presents and explains the first-time various examples of successfully implemented solutions based on clean air (80% N2 / 20% O2) and vacuum switching with GWP = 0. The challenges associated with mobile solutions are addressed, taking into account the relevant regulations and technical standards. The advantages and disadvantages of mobile solutions are 1 also discussed, including the challenges of more space requirements with F-gas-free air GIS compared to SF6.

The following aspects are in particular presented and discussed:

o Concepts of mobile substations (primary and secondary facets) o Guidelines for specifications, design, storage, asset management, transportation and tender evaluation o Installation, commissioning and operational aspects and experiences

Mobile substations offer a proven, flexible, and cost-effective solution for modern grid challenges. Their success depends on rapid deployment, robust design, thorough pre-testing, regulatory compliance, and effective maintenance. When these factors are addressed, users can maximize the benefits of mobile substations across a wide range of applications. Mobile

Substations using SF6 – free GIS products are successfully in operations and enable emission free applications.

Additional informations

Publication type Session Materials
Reference B3_12004_2026
Publication year
Publisher CIGRE
Country Germany
Study committees
File size 1 MB
Price for non member 30 €
Price for member 30 €

Authors

ALBERT Andreas - Siemens Energy Global GmbH&Co KG; WEIHKOPF Michael - Siemens Energy Global GmbH&Co KG; KUSCHEL Mark - Siemens Energy Global GmbH&Co KG; MENKE Peter - Siemens Energy Global GmbH&Co KG; DAHL Leif Egil - Siemens Energy Norway; STADHEIM Leif Ingar - Siemens Energy Norway

Keywords

Sustainability, Mobile substation, Compact, GIS, SF6-free, F-gas-free, Vacuum, GHG emission, LPIT, Low Power Instrument Transformers

Innovative greenhouse gas free mobile substation