Next generation 12kV primary electricity distribution systems serving critical infrastructure or commercial and industrial applications target unprecedented intelligence, integration and resilience to harsh atmospheric conditions, as well as other natural or malevolent events. Fundamental to the overall evolution towards Smart-enabled systems, this capability is required in order to protect assets and operations, optimise stability to mitigate devastating power outages, efficiently integrate renewables and more generally minimise system losses. In contrast to existing 12kV primary switchgear - which are circuit breakers with 3-position disconnectors mounted at every network node, usually within indoor switch-rooms or vaults - next generation hardware must be fully-integrated, functionalised for intelligent for remote/automatic operation, robust against phase-to-phase faults, environmentally inert and isolated, compact and maintenance-free. No existing technology simultaneously meets all these requirements, confirmed by systems end users and systems integrators. In direct response to this need, Elmecon working with SPE Energy aim to fill this void through their disruptive GENiSYS technology platform for Smart-enabled high performance swichgear.

Electricity grids are becoming increasingly complex & dynamic to meet renewable/distributed energy needs & improve operational efficiencies mitigating costly power outages. Studies show full smart grid potential will require installation of switchgear at every network switching point. Growth of urban populations is leading to increased complexity & current density at key junctions where space is limited & vaults subject to flooding risks. Regulators require more flood tolerant network capability. Sulphur Hexaflouride gas (SF6) is widely used in Gas Insulated Switchgear, but gases vent into the substation or environment, with potentially toxic by-products of SF6 or mineral oil. SF6 is a greenhouse gas with an impact 22,800 times greater than CO2. The project delivers a compact, high performance, flood proof, SF6 free, switchgear solution.