Trends in High Voltage Switchgear Research and Technology

Abstract

High voltage switchgear is an essential element for the transformation of energy systems towards sustainable and low carbon footprint technologies by electrification of society and industry. This contribution highlights some important research and technology trends in high voltage (HV) switchgear development for reaching greener and smarter electricity transmission systems. In AC transmission, the focus is on the replacement of SF6, which is a strong greenhouse gas, in HV switchgear. Condition assessment is an important field within the “digitalization” of transmission systems to ensure reliability at reduced costs. Research activities and trends in these fields are discussed. Furthermore, HVDC transmission systems will be important for the future electricity system. As more point-to-point links are built, and as the need for HVDC transmission increases with a growing integration of renewables and rising demand for electricity, more complex multi-terminal HVDC grid topologies appear. Activities in this field are also presented with a focus on HVDC circuit-breakers and gas-insulated HVDC systems, which have been emerging in the last years. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.