Core Insights - Schneider Electric has signed a long-term cooperation agreement with E.ON, a leading European energy company, to provide SF₆-free medium-voltage switchgear and digital technologies, supporting E.ON's sustainability goals [1][3] - The partnership aims to enhance the development of sustainable, intelligent, and efficient energy grids, building on over 20 years of mutual cooperation [1][3] - E.ON's Chief Procurement Officer emphasized the importance of investing in future-oriented infrastructure to accelerate energy transition and enhance competitive sustainability [1] Group 1 - Schneider Electric will supply GM AirSeT eco-friendly gas-insulated switchgear and RM AirSeT eco-friendly gas-insulated ring main units annually to E.ON [3] - Prior to the agreement, a pilot project was initiated at E.ON's subsidiary Westnetz to validate the SF₆-free gas-insulated switchgear's compliance with E.ON's stringent requirements [3] - The collaboration reflects E.ON's high recognition of AirSeT technology in design and performance, laying a solid foundation for the deployment of next-generation switchgear [3] Group 2 - The urgency for alternatives to SF₆ is driven by its significant environmental impact, with a global warming potential 23,000 times that of CO₂ and a long atmospheric lifespan of 1,000 years [4] - The EU's fluorinated gases regulation, effective January 1, 2026, prohibits the use of SF₆ and other fluorinated gases in medium-voltage distribution equipment rated 24kV and below [4] - Schneider Electric has invested in R&D for SF₆-free medium-voltage products over the past 15 years, achieving industry recognition for its innovative solutions [4] Group 3 - AirSeT technology has been validated in various industrial and power applications globally, including significant deployments in Switzerland and Germany [5] - In China's Xiong'an New Area, Schneider Electric provided the latest eco-friendly gas-insulated switchgear, achieving 100% environmental management and operation [5] - The company plans to expand its range of air and gas-insulated switchgear products to offer diverse, adaptable SF₆-free solutions for various applications and regions [5]