SF₆-Free Solutions: Blue GIS and Clean Air in MV/HV Power Systems
Session
Energy Efficiency Engineering
Description
Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) has been the predominant insulating and switching medium in medium-voltage and high-voltage (MV/HV) gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) for several decades, primarily due to its superior dielectric properties. However, SF₆ is also the most potent greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential (GWP) 23,500 times that of CO₂ and an atmospheric lifetime exceeding 3,000 years, making its substitution a critical environmental priority. This paper evaluates emerging SF₆-free alternatives, with particular emphasis on Blue GIS technology, which combines vacuum switching with clean air insulation. The study analyzes their technical performance, operational reliability, safety characteristics, life-cycle environmental impact, and economic feasibility in comparison with conventional SF₆-based systems. Large-scale European projects and case studies are reviewed to demonstrate practical deployment and operational experience. Findings confirm that SF₆-free GIS provides a robust, reliable, and environmentally sustainable pathway for modernizing electrical grids, supporting decarbonization strategies and advancing the transition toward carbon-neutral power systems.
Keywords:
Gas-Insulated Switchgear, Medium Voltage, High Voltage, Sulfur Hexafluoride, Blue GIS, Clean Air, Vacuum Interruption, Sustainable Power Systems
Proceedings Editor
Edmond Hajrizi
ISBN
978-9951-982-41-2
Location
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
Start Date
25-10-2025 9:00 AM
End Date
26-10-2025 6:00 PM
DOI
10.33107/ubt-ic.2025.147
Recommended Citation
Ymeri, Armend; Gashi, Diamant; and Krasniqi, Nexhmi, "SF₆-Free Solutions: Blue GIS and Clean Air in MV/HV Power Systems" (2025). UBT International Conference. 1.
https://knowledgecenter.ubt-uni.net/conference/2025UBTIC/EEE/1
SF₆-Free Solutions: Blue GIS and Clean Air in MV/HV Power Systems
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
Sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆) has been the predominant insulating and switching medium in medium-voltage and high-voltage (MV/HV) gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) for several decades, primarily due to its superior dielectric properties. However, SF₆ is also the most potent greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential (GWP) 23,500 times that of CO₂ and an atmospheric lifetime exceeding 3,000 years, making its substitution a critical environmental priority. This paper evaluates emerging SF₆-free alternatives, with particular emphasis on Blue GIS technology, which combines vacuum switching with clean air insulation. The study analyzes their technical performance, operational reliability, safety characteristics, life-cycle environmental impact, and economic feasibility in comparison with conventional SF₆-based systems. Large-scale European projects and case studies are reviewed to demonstrate practical deployment and operational experience. Findings confirm that SF₆-free GIS provides a robust, reliable, and environmentally sustainable pathway for modernizing electrical grids, supporting decarbonization strategies and advancing the transition toward carbon-neutral power systems.