Schneider Electric has announced the signing of a long-term framework agreement with E.ON, one of Europe’s largest energy companies. This strategic partnership marks a significant step forward in the deployment of sustainable and digital-ready energy infrastructure across Europe. Schneider Electric will support E.ON’s ambitious goals with its latest SF6-free medium-voltage (MV) switchgear and a suite of digital technologies.
The framework agreement stipulates that Schneider Electric will supply GM-AirSeT primary switchgear panels and RM-AirSeT secondary switchgear panels (Ring Main Units, RMUs) on an annual basis.
This technology is crucial because the upcoming European Union F-Gas Regulation will ban the use of the potent greenhouse gas SF₆ in new medium-voltage switchgear up to 24 kV from January 1, 2026. SF₆ has an extremely high impact on the climate, up to 24,300 times more potent than CO₂, and persists in the atmosphere for thousands of years.
Commenting on the agreement Lisbeth Buschkühl, Chief Procurement Officer of E.ON, says, “This long-term contract secures access to SF6-free technologies, supports standardization and enables a cost-efficient implementation of the energy transition,”Prior to the signing of the agreement, a pilot project with SF₆-free gas-insulated primary switchgear (GIS) was launched at Westnetz (an E.ON subsidiary) to assess its suitability for E.ON’s requirements. Schneider Electric will supply a significant portion of E.ON’s primary and secondary requirements – a testament to its confidence in AirSeT’s design and capabilities.
“This agreement with E.ON is a powerful example of accelerating the shift to more sustainable, digital energy infrastructure. By working with E.ON to deploy SF₆-free technologies, we’re not only helping satisfy new regulatory requirements — we’re shaping the future of electricity in Europe,” said Melton Chang, Executive Vice President of Power Systems at Schneider Electric.
Over the last 15 years, Schneider Electric has invested in the development of a comprehensive SF₆-free medium voltage portfolio for secondary and primary distribution grids. The industrial centers in Regensburg (Germany) and Duna Smart Factory (Hungary) are central to delivering on this long-term contract, ensuring reliable and efficient production. In recent years, Schneider Electric has made significant investments in expanding its industrial capacity in Europe to meet the growing demand for SF₆-free technologies, reinforcing the company’s strategic commitment to sustainable innovation.
