Schneider Electric and E.ON accelerate the energy transition with new agreement.
Schneider Electric and E.ON Partner to Accelerate Energy Transition with SF₆-Free Technology
Schneider Electric and E.ON have signed a long-term framework agreement to accelerate the energy transition using SF₆-free medium-voltage switchgear. This strategic partnership marks a significant step towards developing a more sustainable and digitally advanced energy infrastructure in Europe.
The collaboration between Schneider Electric, a leader in digital energy management and automation, and E.ON, a major European energy company, is based on a shared goal: to build future-proofed power grids that are sustainable, intelligent, and efficient. The partnership, built on over two decades of collaboration, ensures early access to sustainable technology and compliance with the EU’s F-gas regulation, effective January 2026.
To actively drive the green transition in Germany, we are investing heavily in a future-proof energy infrastructure. This long-term agreement secures access to SF₆-free technology, supports standardization, and enables a cost-effective energy transition.
Lisbeth Buschkühl, Chief Procurement Officer at E.ON SE
The agreement stipulates that Schneider Electric will annually supply GM-AirSeT primary switchgear panels and RM-AirSeT secondary switchgear panels (Ring Main Units, RMU). Prior to the agreement, a pilot project was initiated at Westnetz, an E.ON subsidiary, using SF₆-free gas-insulated primary equipment to evaluate the solution based on E.ON’s needs. Schneider Electric will cover a significant portion of E.ON’s primary and secondary medium-voltage equipment needs, reflecting strong confidence in AirSeT technology.
The agreement with E.ON is a powerful example of how we can accelerate the transition to a more sustainable and digital energy infrastructure. By collaborating with E.ON to implement SF₆-free technologies, we are not only helping to meet new regulatory requirements – we are shaping the future of power grids in Europe.
Melton Chang, Executive Vice President Power Systems at Schneider Electric
Over the past fifteen years, Schneider Electric has invested in developing a comprehensive SF₆-free range for medium-voltage solutions in both secondary and primary distribution networks. The production facilities in Regensburg (Germany) and Duna Smart Factory (Hungary) are central to the deliveries under the new agreement. To meet increasing demand, Schneider Electric has made significant investments in strengthening its industrial capacity in Europe.
Through consistent and forward-looking standardization within its German network companies, E.ON has created the conditions for introducing the next generation of switchgear, developed and manufactured in Europe. These innovations strengthen the resilience and efficiency of the power grid and are essential building blocks in E.ON’s sustainability efforts.
Transition to SF₆-Free Technology and New Greenhouse Gas Regulations
The greenhouse gas SF₆ has a global warming potential (GWP) of 24,300, meaning that one kilogram of SF₆ affects the climate as much as 24,300 kilograms of carbon dioxide. Its lifespan in the atmosphere is approximately 1,000 years, making the impact long-lasting. The new EU regulation on fluorinated greenhouse gases prohibits the use of SF₆ and other F-gases in new medium-voltage equipment up to 24 kV from January 1, 2026. Therefore, the transition from SF₆ is becoming increasingly concrete and necessary.
With a broad range of SF₆-free switchgear, strong production in Europe, and a global presence, Schneider Electric is well-equipped to help customers meet the EU’s new requirements. The company will continue to expand its range of air- and gas-insulated equipment to offer SF₆-free alternatives for various applications and markets.
AirSeT Technology Validated and Recognized
AirSeT technology, which replaces SF₆ with pure air and vacuum, has received extensive recognition in the industry. The RM AirSeT has been awarded the prestigious iF Design Award, underscoring its innovative features and high design quality. The technology has also been validated in the field through applications in industrial environments and power grids, including at Romande Energie in Switzerland and EAM Netz in Germany.
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