Hitachi Energy and SP Energy Networks (SPEN) have formalised their commitment to Scotland's energy transition by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) focused on deploying sustainable critical energy infrastructure.

The agreement will see Hitachi Energy supply switchgear from its innovative EconiQ® portfolio to SPEN. A key feature of EconiQ equipment is its elimination of sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), a potent greenhouse gas widely used in power grid infrastructure that is 24,300 times more climate-damaging than CO2. By adopting Hitachi Energy's SF6-free technology, SPEN aims to significantly reduce its environmental impact and support Scotland's ambitious target of achieving net zero emissions by 2045.

The first installations of the EconiQ 420 kV GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) are planned for two new substations on SPEN's network, infrastructure deemed critical for the UK's broader energy transition. These initial deployments are estimated to prevent the equivalent of the annual CO2 emissions from approximately 27,600 passenger vehicles.

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This agreement builds upon a long-standing collaboration between Hitachi Energy and SPEN, both committed to facilitating the connection of renewable energy sources to power consumers across the country. The new arrangement will empower SPEN to deliver key projects essential for the UK's energy transition and to meet regulatory commitments set forth by the UK energy regulator Ofgem.

Andre Gargi, Global Head of Marketing & Sales for the Business Unit High Voltage Products at Hitachi Energy, expressed confidence in the partnership: "This agreement will help power Scotland's future and contribute to its net-zero ambitions, and we could not be happier to be the ones enabling it to meet its targets with our SF6-free EconiQ switchgear. We are at a critical point in the energy transition journey and decarbonising the transmission network is a priority: this means modernising the country's energy infrastructure to stimulate economic growth, reducing carbon emissions, and contributing to a cleaner, more resilient energy system for future generations."

Pearse Murray, Transmission Director for SP Energy Networks, added: "Decarbonising the grid as we build the transmission network needed for the energy system of the future is a vital step on the journey to net zero and it's great to have Hitachi on board as a trusted partner. This agreement marks a milestone moment for SP Energy Networks as we continue to invest to upgrade our network while reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. I have no doubt this partnership will help us deliver a cleaner, greener and better future, quicker."